Meaning
Reacting to a positive coincidence.
Cultural Background
The Dutch often use 'geluk' to downplay their own success to avoid appearing arrogant (borstklopperij). In Flanders, you might hear 'Wat een chance' (using the French word) more often than in the Netherlands, though 'Wat een geluk' is perfectly understood. Dutch speakers here might use 'Wat een geluk' but often favor more expressive local variations or combine it with Sranan Tongo terms.
Use it for relief
Don't just use it for winning things. Use it when you avoid something bad, like missing the rain!
Avoid for hard work
If someone worked hard for a promotion, saying 'Wat een geluk' might make them feel like you're ignoring their effort.
Meaning
Reacting to a positive coincidence.
Use it for relief
Don't just use it for winning things. Use it when you avoid something bad, like missing the rain!
Avoid for hard work
If someone worked hard for a promotion, saying 'Wat een geluk' might make them feel like you're ignoring their effort.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing words to complete the exclamation.
Ik vond 10 euro op straat. ___ ___ geluk!
The standard exclamatory pattern is 'Wat een' + noun.
In which situation is 'Wat een geluk' the MOST appropriate response?
Select the best scenario:
'Wat een geluk' is for positive coincidences, not achievements or tragedies.
Complete the dialogue with the correct word order.
A: We zijn net op tijd voor de film! B: Ja, wat een geluk ___ ___ ___ ___.
In a 'dat'-clause, the verb ('zijn') must go to the end of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIk vond 10 euro op straat. ___ ___ geluk!
The standard exclamatory pattern is 'Wat een' + noun.
Select the best scenario:
'Wat een geluk' is for positive coincidences, not achievements or tragedies.
A: We zijn net op tijd voor de film! B: Ja, wat een geluk ___ ___ ___ ___.
In a 'dat'-clause, the verb ('zijn') must go to the end of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes! Adding '-je' makes it sound smaller and more cute/informal. It's used for very minor things like finding a penny.
It's neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend. It's never rude.
Related Phrases
Geluk bij een ongeluk
builds onA blessing in disguise.
Veel geluk!
similarGood luck! (Wishing someone luck)
Bofkont
specialized formLucky person (informal).
