Meaning
A common way to say goodbye in most situations.
Cultural Background
It is the default, polite way to end any service interaction. Also used, but sometimes 'Tot de volgende keer' is preferred in service. Used similarly to the Netherlands, often with a friendly tone. Commonly used in professional settings, though local dialects exist.
When in doubt, use it!
Tot ziens is the safest phrase in Dutch. You will never be wrong using it in a shop or office.
Don't use with close friends
It can sound like you are distancing yourself if used with family or best friends.
Meaning
A common way to say goodbye in most situations.
When in doubt, use it!
Tot ziens is the safest phrase in Dutch. You will never be wrong using it in a shop or office.
Don't use with close friends
It can sound like you are distancing yourself if used with family or best friends.
Add a time
If you know when you'll see them, use 'Tot [time]' to sound more natural.
Dutch directness
Dutch people appreciate the brevity of 'Tot ziens'. Don't feel the need to add extra words.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Tot ____!
The phrase is always 'Tot ziens'.
Which is the most neutral way to say goodbye?
Which phrase is best for a shop?
Tot ziens is the standard neutral farewell.
Match the phrase to the context.
Match: 1. Tot ziens, 2. Doei
Tot ziens is for neutral/formal, Doei is for informal.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ik ga nu. B: ____!
Tot ziens is the appropriate response to a departure.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesTot ____!
The phrase is always 'Tot ziens'.
Which phrase is best for a shop?
Tot ziens is the standard neutral farewell.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Tot ziens is for neutral/formal, Doei is for informal.
A: Ik ga nu. B: ____!
Tot ziens is the appropriate response to a departure.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. It is polite enough for formal settings but common enough for daily life.
Yes, it is very common for ending business calls.
That is fine! It is a fixed expression, not a literal promise.
Yes, 'Tot' alone is very abrupt. Always use 'Tot ziens'.
It is a voiced 'z', like in 'zebra'.
Yes, it is understood and used, though regional variations exist.
You can, but 'Doei' is much more common for children.
No, it is invariable.
'Tot kijk' is slightly more informal and less common.
No, use 'Met vriendelijke groet' for emails.
Related Phrases
Tot straks
similarSee you later today
Tot morgen
similarSee you tomorrow
Doei
contrastBye
Tot wederziens
specialized formUntil we see each other again
