computer
computer في 30 ثانية
- The word 'computer' in Dutch is a de-word (de computer) and is a direct loanword from English.
- It is used for all types of computing devices, though 'laptop' is more specific for portable ones.
- Common prepositions used with it are 'op' (on) and 'achter' (behind), reflecting how Dutch speakers view the interaction.
- The plural is 'computers', and the verb for using one is 'computeren', which is a regular weak verb.
The Dutch word computer is a direct loanword from English, referring to an electronic device for storing and processing data. While the word is identical in spelling to its English counterpart, its integration into the Dutch language involves specific grammatical rules and a distinct phonetic flavor. In the Netherlands and Flanders, the computer is the cornerstone of modern life, used in every conceivable context from high-stakes financial trading in Amsterdam to primary school classrooms in Utrecht. Historically, Dutch had other terms like rekenaar (calculator/computer), but the English loanword completely dominated the linguistic landscape after the 1980s. Understanding this word is not just about the device itself; it is about understanding how Dutch speakers interact with technology. Whether you are at a kantoor (office) or at home, the computer is your primary tool for communication, creation, and consumption. It is categorized as a de-word, meaning it takes the definite article 'de' and the indefinite article 'een'.
- Daily Utility
- In Dutch culture, efficiency is highly valued. Therefore, the computer is seen as the ultimate 'efficiency machine'. You will hear people talk about their werkcomputer (work computer) or their gamecomputer (gaming PC) with equal frequency. The word is versatile and forms the base for dozens of compound words.
- Social Context
- Using a computer is often described with the verb gebruiken (to use) or werken op (to work on). It is common to hear: 'Ik zit de hele dag achter de computer,' which literally means 'I am sitting behind the computer all day,' implying one is working or browsing.
Mijn oude computer is erg traag geworden, dus ik moet een nieuwe kopen voor mijn studie.
The term extends beyond the physical box under a desk. In modern Dutch, 'computer' can refer to the entire system including the monitor and keyboard, though specific terms like laptop or desktop are used for precision. Because the Dutch economy is heavily digitized, from the Port of Rotterdam to the tech hubs in Eindhoven, the 'computer' is the pulse of the nation. It is also the subject of much debate regarding schermtijd (screen time) and digitale geletterdheid (digital literacy). When you use this word, you are tapping into the primary vocabulary of the Dutch information age.
Zonder een computer kun je tegenwoordig bijna geen bankzaken meer doen in Nederland.
Furthermore, the computer is often personified in Dutch frustration. If a system is down, a Dutch person might say: 'De computer werkt niet mee' (The computer is not cooperating). This highlights the deep integration of the machine into daily life—it is treated almost as a stubborn colleague. Whether you are discussing software-updates or hardware-problemen, the word 'computer' remains the anchor of the conversation. It is an A1 level word because of its universality, yet its usage evolves as you move into more complex technical or professional Dutch (B2/C1 levels).
Using the word computer correctly in Dutch requires an understanding of basic syntax and the specific verbs that accompany technology. In Dutch, sentences are often built around the action being performed with the device. For instance, the most common preposition used with computer is 'op' (on) or 'achter' (behind). You don't just use a computer; you work on it or sit behind it. This spatial awareness is key to sounding natural.
- Prepositional Usage
- 'Ik zit op de computer' implies you are using it for browsing or leisure. 'Ik werk op de computer' is the standard way to say you are using it for professional tasks. 'Ik zit achter de computer' is perhaps the most common way to describe the physical act of being at the workstation.
- Verbal Pairings
- Common verbs include: opstarten (to start up), afsluiten (to shut down), herstarten (to restart), and crashen (to crash). Note that 'crashen' is another loanword used frequently in Dutch tech talk.
Vergeet niet je computer af te sluiten voordat je het kantoor verlaat.
When describing the computer, Dutch speakers use standard adjectives. A computer can be snel (fast), traag (slow), nieuw (new), or kapot (broken). Because 'computer' is a masculine/feminine noun (de-word), the adjectives usually take an -e ending when following a definite article: 'de snelle computer'. However, after 'een', the ending depends on the gender; since it is a de-word, it remains 'een snelle computer'. This is a crucial grammar point for A1-A2 learners to master.
De computers in de bibliotheek zijn gratis te gebruiken voor alle leden.
In more complex sentences, 'computer' often appears in the diminutive form: computertje. This can be used to describe a small device (like a Raspberry Pi) or used affectionately/dismissively. For example, 'Ik heb een klein computertje voor mijn domotica' (I have a small little computer for my home automation). Mastering these variations allows you to navigate both formal technical documentation and informal office banter with ease. Always remember to place the verb in the second position in a standard main clause: 'Mijn computer is kapot,' not 'Mijn computer kapot is.'
The word computer is ubiquitous in the Dutch-speaking world. You will encounter it from the moment you step into a Dutch airport (Schiphol) to the moment you check into a hotel. It is a fundamental part of the 'Digital Mainport' identity of the Netherlands. In professional environments, the word is spoken thousands of times a day. If you are working in a Dutch office, your IT support (the systeembeheerder) will constantly ask you about your 'computer' or 'werkstation'.
- At the Office
- 'Heb je je computer al herstart?' (Have you restarted your computer yet?) is the universal first step for Dutch tech support. You will also hear it in meetings: 'Laten we de cijfers op de computer bekijken' (Let's look at the figures on the computer).
- In Schools and Universities
- Dutch education is highly digitized. Students are often required to bring their own 'laptop' (a specific type of computer), but public 'computerruimtes' (computer rooms) are still common in university buildings like those at TU Delft or UvA.
In de computerruimte van de school mogen leerlingen alleen aan hun huiswerk werken.
Retail is another place where the word is frequent. Stores like MediaMarkt or Coolblue have massive sections dedicated to computers en accessoires. You will hear customers asking about the geheugen (memory) or the processor of a specific 'computer'. Interestingly, while younger generations might say 'laptop' more often, 'computer' remains the formal and general term used in government communications and official documentation. If the Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst) writes to you, they might mention 'uw computer' in the context of digital filing.
De helpdeskmedewerker vroeg me om de computer uit en weer aan te zetten.
In television and media, 'de computer' is often used in news segments about cybersecurity or the economy. You might hear: 'De hackers kregen toegang tot de computers van het ziekenhuis' (The hackers gained access to the hospital's computers). This shows that the word is used for both personal devices and large-scale infrastructure. Even in casual conversation at a 'verjaardag' (birthday party), someone might complain about their trage computer, leading to a long discussion about the best brands or technical specs.
Even though 'computer' is the same in English and Dutch, English speakers often make subtle mistakes when using it in a Dutch context. The most frequent error involves the definite article. Many learners assume that because it is an object, it might be a 'het-word'. However, computer is a de-word. Saying 'het computer' is a dead giveaway that you are still learning the basics.
- Article Confusion
- Mistake: *Het computer is nieuw. Correct: De computer is nieuw. Always remember: most loanwords for technology (laptop, tablet, smartphone) are 'de-words'.
- Preposition Pitfalls
- Mistake: *Ik ben in de computer. Correct: Ik zit op de computer or achter de computer. Using 'in' suggests you are physically inside the hardware components!
Fout: Ik heb het computer gisteren gekocht. Goed: Ik heb de computer gisteren gekocht.
Pronunciation is another area where mistakes happen. English speakers tend to use the English 'u' (/juː/), but in Dutch, it should be a bit more tense. Also, the 'p' in Dutch is not aspirated (no puff of air) as much as in English. If you pronounce it exactly like the English word, you will be understood, but you won't sound integrated. Another mistake is the plural form. While 'computers' is correct, some learners try to apply the '-en' rule and say 'computeren'. While 'computeren' is a word, it is a verb meaning 'to use the computer,' not the plural of the noun.
Fout: Mijn zoon is de hele dag aan het computers. Goed: Mijn zoon is de hele dag aan het computeren.
Lastly, learners often struggle with compound words. In Dutch, you must write compound words as one word. Mistake: *computer scherm. Correct: computerscherm. Mistake: *computer muis. Correct: computermuis. Separating them is known as 'de Engelse ziekte' (the English disease) in Dutch linguistics because it mimics English spacing rules. To write like a native, glue those words together!
While computer is the general term, Dutch has several synonyms and related words that provide more specificity depending on the context. Knowing these will help you navigate different levels of formality and technical depth. In modern parlance, people often use the specific type of device rather than the generic 'computer'.
- Laptop
- The most common alternative. Most people today use a laptop. It is also a 'de-word'. Usage: 'Ik neem mijn laptop mee naar de les.'
- PC (Pe-ce)
- Short for Personal Computer. Used exactly like in English, but pronounced 'pay-say'. It is often used to distinguish Windows machines from Macs.
- Rekenaar
- An older, more traditional Dutch word. You will rarely hear this in the Netherlands, but it is still occasionally used in Flanders (Belgium) or in very formal/academic historical contexts.
Ik gebruik liever een laptop dan een vaste computer, omdat ik veel reis.
Other related terms include toestel (device) and apparaat (appliance/device). While you wouldn't usually call a computer a 'toestel', you might hear it in a broader sense: 'Welke toestellen heb je verbonden met het internet?' (Which devices do you have connected to the internet?). In a professional IT setting, you might hear werkstation (workstation) or server. For very small computers, the term microcomputer or embedded system is used.
Mijn desktop staat op mijn bureau, maar ik werk vaak op de bank met mijn tablet.
In Dutch slang, you might hear bak (literally: box/crate) to refer to a computer, especially a powerful or large one. 'Dat is een flinke bak!' would mean 'That is a powerful computer!'. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the right word for the right situation, moving beyond the basic 'computer' and expressing yourself with the precision of a native speaker.
حقيقة ممتعة
Before the machine was invented, a 'computer' was a job title for people (often women) who did complex mathematical calculations by hand.
دليل النطق
- Pronouncing the 'u' as a Dutch 'u' (/y/) instead of the English-style 'yu' (/ju/).
- Using a hard 'p' with too much air (aspiration).
- Rolling the 'r' too much if the speaker has a Southern Dutch accent.
- Stress on the first syllable.
- Forgetting that the 'c' is pronounced as a 'k'.
أمثلة حسب المستوى
De computer is nieuw.
The computer is new.
Uses the definite article 'de' for a masculine/feminine noun.
Ik heb een computer.
I have a computer.
The indefinite article 'een' is used for all genders.
Waar is de computer?
Where is the computer?
Basic question structure with 'waar' (where).
De computer staat op de tafel.
The computer is on the table.
Preposition 'op' means 'on top of'.
Mijn computer is zwart.
My computer is black.
Possessive pronoun 'mijn' (my).
Dit is een oude computer.
This is an old computer.
Adjective 'oude' gets an -e because it follows 'een' for a de-word.
Ik werk met de computer.
I work with the computer.
The preposition 'met' means 'with'.
De computers zijn duur.
The computers are expensive.
Plural form 'computers' with the plural verb 'zijn'.
Ik gebruik de computer elke dag.
I use the computer every day.
Verb 'gebruiken' (to use) in the present tense.
Mijn computer is erg traag.
My computer is very slow.
Adverb 'erg' (very) modifying the adjective 'traag'.
Zit je op de computer?
Are you on the computer?
Inversion used for a question.
Ik moet mijn computer herstarten.
I must restart my computer.
Modal verb 'moeten' with an infinitive at the end.
De computer heeft een groot scherm.
The computer has a large screen.
Compound word 'scherm' (screen).
Hij speelt spelletjes op de computer.
He plays games on the computer.
Preposition 'op' used for digital activities.
Mijn computer is kapot gegaan.
My computer has broken down.
Present perfect tense 'is gegaan'.
Ik koop een nieuwe computer.
I am buying a new computer.
Adjective 'nieuwe' with -e ending.
Ik weet niet hoe ik deze computer moet afsluiten.
I don't know how to shut down this computer.
Subordinate clause with the verb at the end.
De computer is verbonden met het internet.
The computer is connected to the internet.
Passive-like construction with 'verbonden met'.
Zonder computer kan ik mijn werk niet doen.
Without a computer, I cannot do my work.
Negative sentence with 'niet'.
Ik heb alle bestanden op de computer opgeslagen.
I have saved all the files on the computer.
Separable verb 'opslaan' (to save) in the past participle.
De computer crashte terwijl ik aan het schrijven was.
The computer crashed while I was writing.
Continuous construction 'aan het ... was'.
Je moet de computer regelmatig updaten.
You must update the computer regularly.
Use of the loanword 'updaten'.
Er staat veel belangrijke informatie op deze computer.
There is a lot of important information on this computer.
Expletive 'er' to start the sentence.
Mijn vader begrijpt niets van de computer.
My father understands nothing about the computer.
Phrase 'begrijpen van' (to understand about).
De computer heeft de manier waarop we werken veranderd.
The computer has changed the way we work.
Relative clause 'waarop we werken'.
Veel banen worden nu door computers overgenomen.
Many jobs are now being taken over by computers.
Passive voice 'worden overgenomen'.
Het is belangrijk om je computer te beveiligen tegen virussen.
It is important to secure your computer against viruses.
'Om ... te' construction.
De rekenkracht van de moderne computer is verbazingwekkend.
The computing power of the modern computer is amazing.
Genitive-like construction with 'van de'.
Ik heb een krachtige computer nodig voor videobewerking.
I need a powerful computer for video editing.
Adjective 'krachtige' (powerful).
Hij brengt te veel tijd door achter zijn computer.
He spends too much time behind his computer.
Separable verb 'doorbrengen' (to spend time).
De overheid investeert in nieuwe computers voor scholen.
The government is investing in new computers for schools.
Verb 'investeren in'.
Mijn computer maakt een vreemd geluid.
My computer is making a strange sound.
Present tense with 'maakt'.
De computer is een onmisbaar instrument geworden in de wetenschap.
The computer has become an indispensable instrument in science.
Adjective 'onmisbaar' (indispensable).
Men vraagt zich af of de computer ooit het menselijk brein zal evenaren.
One wonders if the computer will ever equal the human brain.
Reflexive verb 'zich afvragen' and future tense 'zal evenaren'.
De kwetsbaarheid van onze computersystemen is een groot risico.
The vulnerability of our computer systems is a major risk.
Noun 'kwetsbaarheid' (vulnerability).
Dankzij de computer is informatie wereldwijd direct toegankelijk.
Thanks to the computer, information is instantly accessible worldwide.
Prepositional phrase 'dankzij' (thanks to).
De computer heeft de grenzen van de communicatie verlegd.
The computer has shifted the boundaries of communication.
Metaphorical use of 'grenzen verleggen'.
We moeten kritisch kijken naar onze afhankelijkheid van de computer.
We must look critically at our dependence on the computer.
Noun 'afhankelijkheid' (dependence).
De computer voert complexe berekeningen in een fractie van een seconde uit.
The computer performs complex calculations in a fraction of a second.
Separable verb 'uitvoeren' (to perform/execute).
De esthetiek van de computer is door de jaren heen sterk veranderd.
The aesthetics of the computer have changed significantly over the years.
Noun 'esthetiek' (aesthetics).
De alomtegenwoordigheid van de computer heeft geleid tot een paradigmaverschuiving.
The ubiquity of the computer has led to a paradigm shift.
Advanced noun 'alomtegenwoordigheid' (ubiquity).
In dit essay analyseren we de symbiose tussen mens en computer.
In this essay, we analyze the symbiosis between human and computer.
Formal academic 'we' and 'analyseren'.
De computer fungeert als een verlengstuk van ons cognitief vermogen.
The computer functions as an extension of our cognitive capacity.
Verb 'fungeren als' (to function as).
Men kan de impact van de computer op de moderne linguïstiek niet ontkennen.
One cannot deny the impact of the computer on modern linguistics.
Formal pronoun 'men'.
De computer heeft de democratisering van kennis gefaciliteerd.
The computer has facilitated the democratization of knowledge.
Advanced verb 'faciliteren'.
De verfijning van de computerarchitectuur bereikt nieuwe hoogten.
The refinement of computer architecture is reaching new heights.
Technical term 'computerarchitectuur'.
De computer is niet langer een louter instrument, maar een actieve actor.
The computer is no longer a mere instrument, but an active actor.
Adverb 'louter' (mere/purely).
De ethische implicaties van autonome computers zijn verreikend.
The ethical implications of autonomous computers are far-reaching.
Adjective 'verreikend' (far-reaching).
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
— Used when a system or bureaucracy prevents something from happening. Inspired by 'Little Britain'.
Ik wilde het wijzigen, maar de computer zegt nee.
— To install something or to save a file onto the computer.
Kun je die foto's op de computer zetten?
— A small or simple computer, or used affectionately.
Ik heb een klein computertje voor mijn muziek.
— Used in Dutch as well to describe bureaucratic frustration.
Het systeem blokkeert alles; computer says no.
— Someone very interested in or skilled with computers.
Mijn broer is een echte computer-nerd.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
— When a computer starts behaving erratically or doing things on its own.
Mijn computer slaat helemaal op hol door dat virus.
Informal— To be glued to the computer screen, unable to stop.
Tijdens de lockdown zat iedereen aan de computer gekluisterd.
Neutral— To be extremely good at calculations or logic, like a computer.
Zij heeft echt een computerbrein; ze vergeet nooit een getal.
Informal— When the technology dictates what a person can or cannot do.
In dit bedrijf is de computer de baas, niet de manager.
Neutral— To process a large amount of data through a computer program quickly.
We jagen deze cijfers even door de computer.
Informal— When the computer's hardware isn't powerful enough for a task.
Deze game is te zwaar; mijn computer trekt het niet.
Informal— To spend an incredibly long time on the computer.
Je kunt wel computeren tot je een ons weegt, maar het probleem lost zich niet op.
Informal— Turning the computer off or the screen going blank.
Na acht uur werk gaat de computer op zwart.
Neutral— Someone who has no idea how to use a computer.
Mijn oma is een totale computer-analfabeet.
Informalعائلة الكلمة
الأسماء
الأفعال
الصفات
مرتبط
احفظها
وسيلة تذكّر
Think of a 'COM-poser' who uses a 'PU-re' 'TER-minal'. Or simply realize it's the exact same word as in English, just add 'de'!
ربط بصري
Imagine a large 'DE' (the Dutch article) sitting on top of your monitor. This helps you remember it's 'de computer'.
Word Web
تحدٍّ
Try to name five parts of your computer in Dutch (e.g., scherm, muis, toetsenbord, kabel, knop).
أصل الكلمة
Borrowed from English in the mid-20th century. The English word comes from the verb 'to compute', which originates from the Latin 'computare' meaning 'to count' or 'to calculate'.
المعنى الأصلي: A person who performs calculations.
Indo-European (via Germanic and Latin).السياق الثقافي
No specific sensitivities, but be aware of the 'digital divide' when discussing computers with elderly people.
English speakers find this word easy, but must be careful not to use English grammar (like 'the computer's screen' vs 'het computerscherm').
Summary
The word 'computer' is essential for A1 learners because it's nearly identical to English, but you must remember it uses 'de' and often pairs with the preposition 'achter' (e.g., 'Ik zit achter de computer').
- The word 'computer' in Dutch is a de-word (de computer) and is a direct loanword from English.
- It is used for all types of computing devices, though 'laptop' is more specific for portable ones.
- Common prepositions used with it are 'op' (on) and 'achter' (behind), reflecting how Dutch speakers view the interaction.
- The plural is 'computers', and the verb for using one is 'computeren', which is a regular weak verb.
محتوى ذو صلة
تعلّمها في السياق
عبارات ذات صلة
مزيد من كلمات technology
apparaat
B1A device or machine.
bellen
A1يتصل (بالهاتف). هذا هو الفعل الخاص بإجراء مكالمة هاتفية.
bericht
A1كلمة 'bericht' تعني رسالة أو خبر يتم إرساله أو استقباله.
berichten
B2لإبلاغ أو إرسال رسالة بطريقة رسمية.
component
C1المكون هو جزء أو عنصر من كل أكبر.
constructie
B2بناء الجسر استغرق وقتا طويلا.
digitaal
B2متعلق بالتكنولوجيا الرقمية.
doorsturen
B1To send something on to another recipient
functioneel
C1مصمم ليكون عمليًا ومفيدًا، مع إعطاء الأولوية للمنفعة على الجماليات.