Used for festivals, conferences, TV shows, and more.
The Dutch spelling is 'programma' (het programma).
Essential for understanding schedules and plans.
The Dutch word 'programma' is a noun that translates to 'program' or 'programme' in English. It refers to a planned series of events, activities, or items that are scheduled to happen, often within a specific timeframe or for a particular purpose. Think of it as a schedule or an agenda for something that will unfold.
Core Meaning
A structured plan of events or activities.
Common Usage
You'll hear 'programma' used in many different contexts, from entertainment and education to conferences and personal schedules.
We hebben een leuk programma voor vanavond.
This word is fundamental for understanding schedules and plans in Dutch. Whether you're attending a festival, a school event, a business meeting, or even just looking at a TV guide, the concept of a 'programma' is central.
Entertainment
For a concert or theater show, the 'programma' lists the order of performances, artists, or acts.
Education
A school or university course has a 'programma' outlining the subjects, lectures, and exams.
Events & Conferences
A conference 'programma' details the sessions, speakers, and breaks throughout the day(s).
Broadcasting
A television or radio 'programma' refers to a specific show or the entire lineup of broadcasts for a period.
Wat staat er op het programma van de conferentie?
Understanding 'programma' will significantly improve your ability to navigate Dutch social events, cultural activities, and academic settings. It's a word you will encounter frequently.
Het programma is nog niet definitief.
Using 'programma' correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that denotes a plan or schedule. It can be the subject of a sentence, the object, or part of a prepositional phrase. Here are various ways to incorporate it into your Dutch sentences, covering different scenarios.
As a Subject
When the 'programma' itself is performing an action or being described.
Het programma begint om acht uur.
(The program starts at eight o'clock.)
As an Object
When the 'programma' is receiving the action of a verb.
Ik heb het programma nog niet gezien.
(I haven't seen the program yet.)
With Possessives
Indicating ownership or association.
Is dit het officiële programma?
(Is this the official program?)
With Prepositions
Showing a relationship to other words.
De details van het programma zijn nog niet bekend.
(The details of the program are not yet known.)
You can also modify 'programma' with adjectives to describe its nature.
Describing the Program
Adding adjectives provides more information.
Het programma was erg interessant.
(The program was very interesting.)
We volgen het volledige programma.
(We are following the full program.)
Consider the context to determine the appropriate article ('het' for 'programma') and any necessary grammatical agreements.
De organisatie heeft een gevarieerd programma samengesteld.
'Programma' is a ubiquitous word in the Netherlands and Belgium, appearing in countless everyday situations. You'll hear it frequently when people discuss their plans, events, or scheduled activities. Here are some common scenarios where 'programma' is actively used:
At Cultural Events
When attending a festival, concert, theatre performance, or museum exhibition, people will often ask about or refer to the 'programma'. For example, 'Wat is het programma van het filmfestival?' (What is the program of the film festival?). You might also see printed programs available that detail the lineup.
In Educational Settings
Students and teachers will use 'programma' when discussing courses, study plans, or the schedule of lectures and workshops. 'Heb je het programma van de nieuwe cursus al gezien?' (Have you seen the program of the new course yet?).
During Business Meetings and Conferences
Professionals refer to the agenda or schedule of a meeting or conference as the 'programma'. 'Het programma van de vergadering is vrij intensief.' (The program of the meeting is quite intensive.)
When Watching Television or Listening to Radio
The term 'programma' is used to refer to a specific TV show or radio segment, or the overall broadcast schedule. 'Wat is een leuk programma op televisie vanavond?' (What's a nice program on television tonight?).
In Daily Conversation About Plans
When discussing weekend plans or upcoming events with friends or family, 'programma' is a natural word to use. 'We hebben een druk programma dit weekend.' (We have a busy program this weekend.)
De lokale omroep zendt een speciaal programma uit over de geschiedenis van de stad.
Is er nog een interessant programma op NPO Zapp?
While 'programma' is a relatively straightforward word, learners might encounter a few common pitfalls. Being aware of these can help you avoid them and sound more natural in your Dutch.
Confusing with 'programma' (English)
The most common mistake is to directly translate the English word 'program' without considering the Dutch spelling and nuances. While the meaning is similar, the Dutch spelling is 'programma' (with two 'm's and ending in 'a'). Using 'program' will not be understood correctly in Dutch.
Incorrect Article Usage
'Programma' is a 'het' word, meaning it takes the definite article 'het' when referring to a specific program. Learners might incorrectly use 'de' or forget the article altogether. For example, saying 'de programma' instead of 'het programma' is incorrect. Always remember 'het programma'.
Pluralization Issues
The plural of 'programma' is 'programma's'. Some learners might try to pluralize it in other ways or forget to add the '-s'. While less common at A2, it's good to be aware. For instance, saying 'programmas' without the apostrophe is incorrect. The correct plural is 'programma's'.
Overuse or Underuse
Sometimes learners might avoid using 'programma' altogether, opting for vaguer terms like 'wat we gaan doen' (what we are going to do) when a specific 'programma' is being discussed. Conversely, they might use it when a simpler word like 'plan' would suffice. Strive for the right word based on the context: 'programma' implies a more structured, scheduled series of events.
Confusing with Related Concepts
While 'programma' refers to the plan or schedule itself, some learners might confuse it with the actual event or the content of the program. For example, saying 'Het programma was leuk' (The program was fun) is correct, but confusing it with 'De voorstelling was leuk' (The performance was fun) might happen. The 'programma' is the list of what happens, not necessarily the event itself, though it can sometimes be used metonymically.
Fout: Ik heb de programma gemist. Correct: Ik heb het programma gemist.
While 'programma' is the most common and direct translation for 'program' or 'programme' in the sense of a planned series of events, there are other Dutch words that might be used depending on the specific context or nuance. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the most appropriate word.
Programma vs. Plan
Programma: Refers to a detailed, often public or formal, schedule of events. It implies a sequence and timing.
Het programma van het festival duurt drie dagen.
(The program of the festival lasts three days.) Plan: A more general term for an intention or a course of action. It can be less detailed and more personal.
Mijn plan is om vanavond te studeren.
(My plan is to study tonight.)
Programma vs. Agenda
Programma: Typically used for events, entertainment, or educational courses.
Het programma van de bruiloft was erg leuk.
(The program of the wedding was very fun.) Agenda: More commonly used for meetings, conferences, or a personal list of things to do.
Zullen we de agenda doornemen voor de vergadering?
(Shall we go through the agenda for the meeting?)
Programma vs. Rooster
Programma: As discussed, a planned series of events.
Het programma voor de studiedag is online.
(The program for the study day is online.) Rooster: Specifically refers to a timetable, often for school or work, indicating fixed times for classes or shifts.
Ik moet mijn nieuwe les-rooster nog bekijken.
(I still need to look at my new class schedule/timetable.)
Programma vs. Uitzending
Programma: Can refer to a TV or radio show as part of a schedule.
Het laatste programma van de reeks was indrukwekkend.
(The last program of the series was impressive.) Uitzending: Specifically refers to a broadcast (TV or radio).
De live uitzending van de wedstrijd begint zo.
(The live broadcast of the match starts soon.)
In summary, 'programma' is best used when referring to a structured, planned series of events, performances, or content, especially in contexts like entertainment, education, and festivals. For more general intentions, use 'plan'. For meeting schedules, use 'agenda'. For timetables, use 'rooster'. And for broadcasts, 'uitzending' is more specific.
How Formal Is It?
Formal
""
Neutral
""
Informal
""
Child friendly
""
Fun Fact
The earliest use of 'programma' in Dutch referred to written announcements, like posters or public notices. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass planned sequences of events, particularly with the rise of organized entertainment, broadcasting, and conferences.
Pronunciation Guide
UK/prəˈɡrɑːmə/
US/prəˈɡræmə/
The stress falls on the second syllable: pro-GRAM-ma.
Rhymes With
dramapanoramaschemacommaenemastigmadiplomatrauma
Common Errors
Pronouncing the 'a' at the end too short or too much like an 'uh' sound.
Incorrectly stressing the first syllable.
Adding an English 'g' sound instead of the Dutch 'gr' sound.
Difficulty Rating
Reading2/5
At A2 level, learners will encounter 'programma' in simple sentences related to schedules and events. Understanding its core meaning is straightforward, but complex sentence structures or specific contexts might pose a slight challenge.
'Programma' is a neuter noun, so it takes the definite article 'het'. Example: 'Ik heb het programma gemist.'
Pluralization of Nouns ending in -a
Many Dutch nouns ending in -a form their plural by adding -'s. Example: 'Het programma' becomes 'de programma's'.
Verb Conjugation with 'programma'
The verb conjugation depends on the subject. Example: 'Het programma begint.' (The program starts.) vs. 'Wij volgen het programma.' (We follow the program.)
Using 'van' for possession/relation
To specify which program, use 'van'. Example: 'Het programma van de filmavond was geweldig.'
Adjective agreement
Adjectives preceding 'programma' take an '-e' ending when preceded by the definite article 'het'. Example: 'Het interessante programma.'
— This means the schedule or plan is still subject to change and has not been finalized.
De organisator meldde: 'Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> is nog niet definitief, dus houd de website in de gaten.'
— To introduce or showcase a planned series of events.
De burgemeester zal het nieuwe stadsprogramma <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>presenteren</mark>.
Often Confused With
programmavsprogram
This is the English spelling. In Dutch, the word is spelled 'programma' with two 'm's and ending in 'a'.
programmavsschema
'Schema' often refers to a more rigid timetable or diagram, while 'programma' is usually for a sequence of events or activities within an event.
programmavsplan
'Plan' is a more general term for an intention or intention, while 'programma' implies a structured, detailed schedule.
Easily Confused
programmavsplan
Both refer to future actions or intentions.
A 'plan' is a general intention or scheme. A 'programma' is a detailed, often public, schedule of events or activities within a larger event or period.
Mijn <mark>plan</mark> is om een boek te schrijven. Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van de schrijversworkshop is erg nuttig.
programmavsagenda
Both relate to scheduled items.
'Agenda' is typically used for meetings or conferences, listing topics to be discussed. 'Programma' is broader and refers to the entire sequence of activities for an event like a festival, concert, or course.
De <mark>agenda</mark> van de vergadering bevat drie punten. Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van het muziekfestival is indrukwekkend.
programmavsrooster
Both are types of schedules.
'Rooster' specifically refers to a timetable, often for fixed periods like school classes or work shifts. 'Programma' is more about the sequence of events in a particular occasion or broadcast.
Ik moet mijn les-<mark>rooster</mark> nog bekijken. Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van de studiedag is online.
programmavsschema
Both indicate a structured sequence.
'Schema' can be a more general term for a diagram or a fixed timetable, whereas 'programma' typically refers to the planned events of a specific occasion or broadcast, often with a more dynamic flow.
Dit is het <mark>schema</mark> van de treinreis. Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van de theatervoorstelling is erg divers.
programmavsuitzending
Both relate to media content.
'Uitzending' specifically means a broadcast (TV or radio). 'Programma' can refer to a specific show within an 'uitzending', or the entire list of broadcasts (the schedule).
De live <mark>uitzending</mark> van de wedstrijd begint om 19:00. Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van die zender is erg gevarieerd.
Sentence Patterns
A1
Het programma is [adjective].
Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> is leuk.
A1
Wat is het programma?
Wat is het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark>?
A2
Het programma van [noun] begint om [time].
Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma van</mark> de voorstelling begint om 20:00.
A2
We hebben een [adjective] programma.
We hebben een <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>vol programma</mark>.
B1
Het programma bevat [noun(s)].
Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> bevat workshops en lezingen.
B1
Ik heb het programma van [event/topic] gelezen.
Ik heb het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma van</mark> het festival gelezen.
B2
Het programma is erop gericht om [verb].
Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> is erop gericht om duurzame oplossingen te bevorderen.
B2
Ondanks [noun], is het programma [adjective].
Ondanks de regen, is het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> doorgegaan.
The English spelling 'program' is incorrect in Dutch. The Dutch word is spelled 'programma' with two 'm's and ends in 'a'. This is a very common error for English speakers.
Using the wrong article ('de' instead of 'het').→het programma
'Programma' is a neuter noun ('onzijdig woord'), so it always takes the definite article 'het'. Saying 'de programma' is grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect pluralization.→programma's
The plural form is 'programma's'. Learners might forget the apostrophe or try to pluralize it differently. For example, 'programmas' is incorrect.
Confusing 'programma' with 'plan'.→Use 'programma' for a structured sequence of events; use 'plan' for a general intention.
'Plan' is a general intention, while 'programma' is a detailed schedule for an event. Saying 'Ik heb een leuk plan voor vanavond' is fine, but if you mean a specific sequence of activities, 'programma' is better: 'Ik heb een leuk <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> bedacht.'
Using 'programma' when 'agenda' or 'rooster' is more appropriate.→Use 'agenda' for meeting topics; use 'rooster' for timetables.
While 'programma' is broad, 'agenda' is specific for meeting topics, and 'rooster' is for fixed timetables (like school). Using the correct term makes your Dutch more precise. E.g., 'De <mark>agenda</mark> van de vergadering.' vs. 'Het <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>programma</mark> van het festival.'
Tips
Mastering the 'a' ending
Pay attention to the final 'a' in 'programma'. It's a clear, open 'ah' sound, not a short 'uh'. Practice saying words like 'drama' and 'panorama' to get the feel for this sound.
The 'het' article is key
Remember that 'programma' is a 'het' word. Always use 'het programma' when referring to a specific program. This is a common point of error for learners.
Context is crucial
While 'programma' is versatile, consider alternatives like 'agenda' for meetings or 'rooster' for timetables to be more precise in your Dutch.
Active vs. Passive use
You can 'volgen' (follow) a 'programma', 'samenstellen' (compile) a 'programma', or simply ask 'Wat staat er op het programma?' (What's on the program?).
Visual aids for memory
Imagine a colourful event flyer with 'PROGRAMMA' written in big letters. Associating the word with a visual representation of its meaning can aid recall.
Tune into Dutch media
Listen to Dutch radio or watch Dutch television. You'll hear 'programma' used frequently in different contexts, helping you understand its natural usage.
Incorporate into daily chat
When discussing plans for the weekend, a party, or a TV show, make an effort to use 'programma'. For example, 'We hebben een druk programma dit weekend.'
Use in descriptions
When describing an event, use adjectives with 'programma' to add detail, like 'een interessant programma' or 'een gevarieerd programma'.
Dutch appreciation for planning
The Dutch often value planning. Using 'programma' appropriately reflects this cultural tendency when discussing events or schedules.
From public notice to event plan
Remembering its Greek origin ('public notice') can help you understand why 'programma' implies something that is announced or laid out for people to see and follow.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'pro' (professional) actor who draws a 'gram' (picture) of their planned actions on stage. This 'pro-gram' is their 'programma'.
Visual Association
Visualize a colorful, detailed flyer for a festival or event, with the word 'PROGRAMMA' prominently displayed at the top, listing all the exciting things happening.
Word Web
Festival programmaTV programmaConferentie programmaSchool programmaOnderwijsprogrammaCultureel programmaOnderhandelingsprogrammaVerkiezingsprogramma
Challenge
Try to describe your ideal weekend using at least three sentences that include the word 'programma'.
Word Origin
The word 'programma' originates from the Greek word 'prógramma', which means 'a public notice' or 'a proclamation'. This Greek word was formed from 'pro-' (before, in front of) and 'gramma' (writing). The word then entered Latin and later other European languages, including Dutch.
Original meaning: A written notice displayed publicly.
The word 'programma' itself is neutral. However, the content or nature of a 'programma' can be sensitive, depending on the context (e.g., political programs, controversial documentaries).
In English-speaking countries, the spelling 'programme' is common in British English, while 'program' is used in American English. The Dutch 'programma' bridges these, being closer to the British spelling but with a distinct Dutch ending.
Dutch television channels often have specific 'programma' blocks for children (e.g., NPO Zapp), news, or documentaries.Major Dutch festivals like Lowlands or Pinkpop release detailed 'programma' guides months in advance.Political parties in the Netherlands publish 'verkiezingsprogramma's' (election programs) outlining their policy proposals.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Festivals and cultural events
Het programma van het festival
Wat staat er op het programma?
Een gevarieerd programma
Television and radio
Het televisieprogramma
Het radioprogramma
Welk programma is er nu?
Education and courses
Het studieprogramma
Het schoolprogramma
Het programma van de cursus
Meetings and conferences
Het programma van de vergadering
Het congresprogramma
Het programma aanpassen
Personal plans and schedules
Een vol programma hebben
Mijn programma voor vandaag
Een programma maken
Conversation Starters
"Wat staat er vandaag op jouw programma?"
"Heb je al een programma voor het komende weekend?"
"Welk televisieprogramma raad je aan?"
"Gaan we het programma van het festival nog bekijken?"
"Kunnen we het programma voor de reis een beetje aanpassen?"
Journal Prompts
Beschrijf een ideaal programma voor een dagje uit in Nederland. Gebruik het woord 'programma' minstens drie keer.
Als je een eigen televisieprogramma mocht maken, wat zou het zijn en hoe zou het programma eruitzien?
Schrijf een korte tekst over een festival dat je graag zou willen bezoeken. Welke onderdelen zouden absoluut in het programma moeten zitten?
Vergelijk het 'programma' van een drukke werkdag met het 'programma' van een ontspannen vakantiedag.
Stel je voor dat je een evenement organiseert. Welke stappen zou je nemen om het programma samen te stellen?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions
The plural of 'programma' is 'programma's'. For example, 'We hebben verschillende programma's op tv gezien.' (We watched different programs on TV.)
'Programma' is a neuter noun, so it is a 'het' word. You use the definite article 'het' when referring to a specific program. For example: 'Het programma is interessant.'
While 'programma' can technically refer to a computer program, the more common and preferred term in Dutch for software or computer applications is 'software' or 'app'. 'Programma' is usually reserved for planned events or broadcasts.
A 'plan' is a general intention or scheme. A 'programma' is a more detailed and structured schedule of events, often for a specific occasion like a festival, conference, or TV broadcast. For example, 'Mijn plan is om te reizen. Het programma van de reis is nog niet bekend.'
For a meeting agenda, the Dutch word is 'agenda'. While 'programma' can sometimes be used loosely, 'agenda' is more specific for the list of topics to be discussed in a meeting. For example: 'De agenda van de vergadering is kort.'
Yes, 'programma' is commonly used for educational courses, study plans, or the curriculum. For instance, 'Het studieprogramma van deze universiteit is erg uitdagend.'
'Een vol programma hebben' translates to 'to have a full schedule' or 'to have a busy program'. It means you have many planned activities or events, leaving little free time. For example: 'Ik heb een vol programma dit weekend.'
Yes, 'programma' can refer to a single TV show or radio segment. For example, 'Dat was een leuk programma op televisie.' (That was a nice program on television.) It can also refer to the entire broadcast schedule.
The word 'programma' comes from the Greek word 'prógramma', meaning 'a public notice' or 'proclamation'. It entered Dutch through Latin and evolved to mean a planned series of events.
The stress is on the second syllable: pro-GRAM-ma. The 'a' at the end is a clear 'ah' sound, similar to 'father'. The 'gr' is a Dutch 'gr' sound, not like the English 'gr' in 'great'.
The Dutch word 'programma' (het programma) refers to a planned series of events, activities, or items, commonly used for festivals, conferences, TV shows, and educational courses. It's crucial for understanding schedules and plans in various contexts.
A planned series of events or activities.
Used for festivals, conferences, TV shows, and more.
The Dutch spelling is 'programma' (het programma).
Essential for understanding schedules and plans.
🗣️
Mastering the 'a' ending
Pay attention to the final 'a' in 'programma'. It's a clear, open 'ah' sound, not a short 'uh'. Practice saying words like 'drama' and 'panorama' to get the feel for this sound.
✍️
The 'het' article is key
Remember that 'programma' is a 'het' word. Always use 'het programma' when referring to a specific program. This is a common point of error for learners.
📚
Context is crucial
While 'programma' is versatile, consider alternatives like 'agenda' for meetings or 'rooster' for timetables to be more precise in your Dutch.
💡
Active vs. Passive use
You can 'volgen' (follow) a 'programma', 'samenstellen' (compile) a 'programma', or simply ask 'Wat staat er op het programma?' (What's on the program?).
