At the A1 level, you learn 'verdrietig' as one of the basic emotions, alongside 'blij' (happy) and 'boos' (angry). You use it in very simple sentences like 'Ik ben verdrietig' (I am sad). You learn that it describes how someone feels. You might use it to talk about a child crying or when you miss your family. The focus is on the basic meaning: feeling unhappy. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet, just that 'verdrietig' describes a person or a situation that makes you want to cry.
At the A2 level, you start to use 'verdrietig' with reasons. You use the conjunction 'omdat' (because) to explain why: 'Ik ben verdrietig omdat mijn kat ziek is.' You also learn how the word changes when it comes before a noun: 'een verdrietig verhaal' but 'de verdrietige jongen'. You can now use adverbs to show intensity, like 'heel verdrietig' (very sad) or 'een beetje verdrietig' (a little sad). You understand that it's the standard word for 'sad' in Dutch.
At the B1 level, you can use 'verdrietig' in more complex sentence structures, including relative clauses. You begin to understand the difference between 'verdrietig' and its synonyms like 'triest' or 'jammer'. You can talk about emotions in more detail, discussing how a movie or a book made you feel. You also start to recognize the noun 'het verdriet' and how it relates to the adjective. You can handle social situations where someone is sad, using appropriate empathetic phrases like 'Wat verdrietig voor je'.
At the B2 level, you use 'verdrietig' with nuance. You understand that it can be used metaphorically or to describe an atmosphere. You are comfortable using it in formal and informal contexts. You can distinguish between 'verdrietig' (the feeling) and 'bedroefd' (the formal/literary state). You know how to use the comparative and superlative forms naturally ('verdrietiger', 'het verdrietigst') and can discuss the cultural implications of expressing sadness in Dutch society versus your own culture.
At the C1 level, 'verdrietig' is just one part of a vast emotional vocabulary. You might use more specific words like 'neerslachtig', 'weemoedig', or 'zwaarmoedig', but you know exactly when 'verdrietig' is the most effective choice for clarity. You can analyze the use of the word in literature and poetry, noting how it contributes to the tone and theme. You understand subtle idiomatic expressions and can use the word to describe complex socio-political situations with precision.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like command of 'verdrietig'. You can play with the word's connotations and use it in highly sophisticated rhetorical ways. You understand its etymological roots and how they influence its modern usage. You can effortlessly switch between 'verdrietig' and its most obscure synonyms to achieve specific stylistic effects in writing or speaking. You are aware of how the word has evolved in the Dutch language over centuries.

verdrietig 30 सेकंड में

  • Verdrietig is the standard Dutch word for 'sad', used in almost all everyday situations.
  • It comes from the noun 'verdriet' (sorrow) and can describe people or things.
  • Grammatically, it often takes an -e ending (verdrietige) when placed before a noun.
  • It is less formal than 'bedroefd' but more emotional than just 'jammer' (pity).

The Dutch word verdrietig is the primary adjective used to describe the state of feeling sad, sorrowful, or unhappy. It is a fundamental emotion word that every learner must master early on because it covers a broad spectrum of emotional pain, from minor disappointments to profound grief. At its core, verdrietig relates to the noun het verdriet (the sadness/grief). Unlike English, where we might oscillate between 'sad', 'unhappy', or 'sorrowful', Dutch speakers frequently default to verdrietig in almost all everyday contexts.

Emotional Range
It can describe a child who dropped their ice cream, a teenager after a breakup, or an adult mourning a loss. It is less intense than 'wanhopig' (desperate) but more specific than 'niet blij' (not happy).
Physical Manifestation
When someone is verdrietig, it often implies visible signs like crying (huilen) or a downcast facial expression. It is an internal feeling that often seeks external expression.
Social Context
In Dutch culture, expressing that you are verdrietig is generally accepted, though the 'doe maar gewoon' (just act normal) mentality might lead some to be reserved about the depth of their sadness in professional settings.

Toen hij hoorde dat hij niet was geslaagd voor zijn examen, voelde hij zich ontzettend verdrietig.

Translation: When he heard that he had not passed his exam, he felt incredibly sad.

In terms of usage frequency, verdrietig appears in literature, news reports, and daily conversation with high regularity. It is not considered formal or informal; it is the standard, neutral term. If you want to sound more poetic, you might use 'bedroefd', and if you want to sound more colloquial, you might say 'baal' (though that is closer to 'annoyed/bummed'). However, for an English speaker, verdrietig is your safe, go-to word for 'sad'.

Het is een verdrietige film die me aan mijn grootmoeder deed denken.

Translation: It is a sad movie that reminded me of my grandmother.

Understanding the difference between being verdrietig and being somber is also key. While verdrietig is usually a response to a specific event (a loss, a failure, a disappointment), somber often refers to a more general mood or a pessimistic outlook on life, similar to 'gloomy' or 'depressed'.

Waarom kijk je zo verdrietig? Is er iets gebeurd?

Translation: Why do you look so sad? Did something happen?

Using verdrietig correctly requires an understanding of Dutch sentence structure and adjective inflection. Most commonly, it functions as a predicate adjective following verbs like 'zijn' (to be), 'worden' (to become), or 'lijken' (to seem/look). Because it describes a state of being, it is often paired with personal pronouns to express internal feelings.

With 'zijn' (To Be)
This is the most direct way to state a feeling. 'Ik ben verdrietig' (I am sad). Note that when used after the verb, the adjective does not change its form.
With 'worden' (To Become)
This describes a change in emotion. 'Zij werd verdrietig toen ze de brief las' (She became sad when she read the letter).
With 'om' or 'over' (Prepositions)
To specify the cause of the sadness, we use 'om' or 'over'. 'Ik ben verdrietig om het verlies' (I am sad about the loss) or 'Hij is verdrietig over de situatie' (He is sad about the situation).

De kleine jongen was verdrietig omdat zijn ballon was geknapt.

Translation: The little boy was sad because his balloon had popped.

When verdrietig is used attributively (before a noun), it must agree with the noun's gender and number. In most cases, this means adding an '-e'. For example, 'een verdrietige vrouw' (a sad woman), 'het verdrietige verhaal' (the sad story), or 'de verdrietige mensen' (the sad people). The only exception is with indefinite 'het-words' in the singular: 'een verdrietig kind' (a sad child).

You can also use verdrietig in comparisons. The comparative is 'verdrietiger' and the superlative is 'het verdrietigst'. For instance: 'Vandaag ben ik nog verdrietiger dan gisteren' (Today I am even sadder than yesterday).

Zij vertelde haar verdrietige verhaal aan de hele klas.

Translation: She told her sad story to the whole class.

In more advanced usage, you might see it paired with 'maken' to indicate that someone or something causes sadness: 'Dat nieuws maakt mij erg verdrietig' (That news makes me very sad). This is a very common structure for expressing empathy or the impact of external events on one's internal state.

In the Netherlands and Flanders, verdrietig is ubiquitous. You will hear it in various settings, ranging from intimate family conversations to formal news broadcasts. It is the standard term used by psychologists, teachers, and parents to discuss emotions with children and adults alike.

In Schools
Teachers often use it to facilitate social-emotional learning. 'Is er iemand verdrietig vandaag?' (Is anyone sad today?) is a common question in primary school 'kringgesprekken' (circle time).
In Music and Lyrics
Dutch pop music, especially 'levenslied' (songs about life), frequently uses verdrietig to describe heartbreak or the hardships of life. Listen to artists like André Hazes or Maan, and you'll likely encounter this word or its noun form 'verdriet'.
In the News
When reporting on tragic events, journalists use verdrietig to describe the mood of a community. 'Het is een verdrietige dag voor de stad' (It is a sad day for the city).

Op de begrafenis waren veel verdrietige gezichten te zien.

Translation: Many sad faces were to be seen at the funeral.

In literature, from children's books like 'Nijntje' (Miffy) to adult novels by Herman Koch, verdrietig is the foundational word for building emotional scenes. Because Dutch values directness, characters often state their feelings plainly using this word rather than relying solely on metaphor.

'Ik voel me een beetje verdrietig,' gaf ze eerlijk toe aan haar vriendin.

Translation: 'I feel a bit sad,' she admitted honestly to her friend.

Social media also plays a role. In comments sections on Instagram or Facebook, you'll see 'Wat verdrietig!' (How sad!) as a common empathetic response to bad news shared by others. It is a quick, effective way to show support without needing a long, complex sentence.

While verdrietig seems straightforward, English speakers often make subtle errors in its application. One of the most common mistakes is confusing it with 'triest' or 'zielig'. While they all relate to sadness, they have different connotations and usages.

Verdrietig vs. Zielig
'Zielig' means 'pitiful' or 'pathetic'. If you say 'Ik ben zielig', you are saying 'I am a pitiful person', which sounds like you are seeking pity. To say you are sad, always use 'verdrietig'.
Verdrietig vs. Triest
'Triest' is usually used for situations, whereas 'verdrietig' is used for people's feelings. 'Het is een trieste zaak' (It is a sad matter) is correct, but 'Ik ben triest' sounds slightly less natural than 'Ik ben verdrietig'.
The Preposition 'About'
English speakers often want to use 'over' for everything. While 'verdrietig over' is correct, Dutch also uses 'om'. Forgetting the 'om' in 'verdrietig om iets' is a common learner error.

Fout: Ik ben zo zielig dat mijn hond dood is.

Goed: Ik ben zo verdrietig dat mijn hond dood is.

Explanation: Using 'zielig' here makes you sound like a victim seeking pity, rather than just expressing sadness.

Another mistake involves the adjective ending. Because 'verdrietig' ends in '-ig', some learners forget to add the '-e' when it's needed. Remember: 'de verdrietige man', not 'de verdrietig man'. Conversely, don't add an '-e' if it follows a verb: 'De man is verdrietig', not 'De man is verdrietige'.

Fout: Een verdrietig vrouw huilde in de trein.

Goed: Een verdrietige vrouw huilde in de trein.

Explanation: Adjectives before 'de-words' like 'vrouw' always get an -e.

Finally, avoid overusing 'verdrietig' for minor frustrations. If you just missed your bus, 'ik baal' or 'ik vind het jammer' (I find it a pity) is more appropriate. 'Verdrietig' implies a deeper emotional weight than simple annoyance.

To truly master Dutch, you need to know when to use verdrietig and when to opt for a synonym that provides more nuance. Dutch has a rich vocabulary for emotions, allowing you to be very specific about the type of sadness you are experiencing.

Bedroefd
This is a more formal and literary version of 'verdrietig'. You might see it in a formal condolence letter or in older literature. It carries a sense of heavy, respectful sorrow. 'Wij zijn diep bedroefd door het overlijden...'
Triest / Treurig
These often describe external things rather than internal feelings. A 'treurige film' or a 'triest gezicht'. 'Triest' can also mean 'shabby' or 'pathetic' in certain contexts, like 'een trieste vertoning' (a sad/pathetic display).
Neerslachtig / Somber
These refer to a longer-term state of mind, closer to 'melancholy' or 'depressed'. If someone is 'neerslachtig', they aren't just sad about one thing; they have a heavy spirit overall.
Ontdaan
This means 'shaken' or 'upset' by a specific event. It combines sadness with a sense of being overwhelmed or shocked.

Hoewel hij niet huilde, was hij diep bedroefd.

Translation: Although he didn't cry, he was deeply saddened (formal).

In a conversational setting, if you want to express that you are feeling a bit down but not profoundly sad, you might say 'Ik zit niet zo lekker in mijn vel' (I'm not feeling so great in my skin/body). This is a very common Dutch idiom that covers mild sadness, stress, or general malaise without being as heavy as 'verdrietig'.

Het weer in Nederland kan soms erg somber zijn.

Translation: The weather in the Netherlands can sometimes be very gloomy.

Finally, 'ellendig' means 'miserable'. This is a step up from verdrietig and often implies physical discomfort or extreme misfortune along with the emotional pain. Use it sparingly for maximum effect!

How Formal Is It?

रोचक तथ्य

The root of the word is linked to 'draaien' (to twist/turn), suggesting that sadness is a feeling that 'twists' the heart or mind.

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK /vərˈdritəx/
US /vərˈdritəx/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: ver-DRIET-ig.
तुकबंदी
triestig plezierig (partial) ijverig hongerig dorstig nederig levendig geduldig
आम गलतियाँ
  • Pronouncing the 'ig' like the English word 'big'. It should be a soft /əx/.
  • Over-emphasizing the first syllable 'ver'.
  • Pronouncing the 'ie' like a short 'i' in 'sit' instead of a long 'ee' in 'see'.
  • Making the 'v' sound too much like an 'f'.
  • Forgetting the gutteral sound at the very end.

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 2/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in texts.

लिखना 3/5

Requires knowledge of adjective endings (-e) and prepositions (om/over).

बोलना 4/5

The '-ig' ending and the 'g' sound can be tricky for English speakers.

श्रवण 2/5

Usually clearly pronounced in most contexts.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

blij boos moe zijn voelen

आगे सीखें

bedroefd triest jammer huilen troosten

उन्नत

neerslachtig zwaarmoedig melancholisch weemoedig leed

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

Adjective Inflection

Een verdrietig kind (het-word, indefinite) vs. De verdrietige vrouw (de-word, definite).

Subordinate Clauses with 'omdat'

Ik ben verdrietig omdat het regent. (Verb goes to the end).

Reflexive Verbs

Ik voel me verdrietig. (Use of 'me' for 'myself').

Comparison of Adjectives

Verdrietig - verdrietiger - het verdrietigst.

Linking Verbs

Hij lijkt verdrietig. (The adjective describes the subject).

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

Ik ben verdrietig.

I am sad.

Basic subject + verb + adjective structure.

2

Ben jij verdrietig?

Are you sad?

Inversion for a question.

3

De baby is verdrietig.

The baby is sad.

Subject 'de baby' is singular.

4

Het is een verdrietig liedje.

It is a sad song.

No -e ending because 'liedje' is a 'het-word' and the article is indefinite 'een'.

5

Waarom ben je verdrietig?

Why are you sad?

Question word 'waarom' starts the sentence.

6

Jan is niet blij, hij is verdrietig.

Jan is not happy, he is sad.

Contrast using 'niet' and 'maar' (implied).

7

Mijn moeder is soms verdrietig.

My mother is sometimes sad.

Adverb of frequency 'soms' used.

8

Kijk, een verdrietig kind.

Look, a sad child.

Attributive use with 'het-word' (kind).

1

Ik ben verdrietig omdat mijn vriend weg gaat.

I am sad because my friend is leaving.

Use of 'omdat' with a subordinate clause.

2

Zij was erg verdrietig over het nieuws.

She was very sad about the news.

Preposition 'over' used to indicate the cause.

3

De verdrietige jongen huilde in de klas.

The sad boy cried in the classroom.

Attributive adjective with -e ending for a 'de-word'.

4

Hij vertelde een verdrietig verhaal over zijn hond.

He told a sad story about his dog.

Attributive adjective without -e for indefinite 'het-word' (verhaal).

5

Word niet verdrietig, alles komt goed.

Don't get sad, everything will be fine.

Imperative form with 'worden'.

6

Wij vinden dit een verdrietige situatie.

We find this a sad situation.

Attributive adjective with -e for 'de-word' (situatie).

7

Ben je nog steeds verdrietig om die film?

Are you still sad about that movie?

Preposition 'om' used for the cause.

8

Vandaag voel ik me een beetje verdrietig.

Today I feel a bit sad.

Reflexive verb 'zich voelen' used.

1

Het is verdrietig dat we elkaar zo lang niet hebben gezien.

It is sad that we haven't seen each other for so long.

Impersonal 'het is' followed by a 'dat'-clause.

2

De film eindigde met een heel verdrietig moment.

The movie ended with a very sad moment.

Adverb 'heel' modifying the adjective.

3

Ik werd verdrietig toen ik de oude foto's zag.

I became sad when I saw the old photos.

Past tense of 'worden' to show emotional change.

4

Zij keek met een verdrietige blik naar de ruïne.

She looked at the ruin with a sad gaze.

Attributive adjective with -e.

5

Het maakt me verdrietig om je zo te zien lijden.

It makes me sad to see you suffer like that.

Structure 'het maakt me [adjective] om...'.

6

Er was een verdrietige sfeer tijdens de bijeenkomst.

There was a sad atmosphere during the meeting.

Describing an abstract noun (sfeer).

7

Hij probeerde niet verdrietig te klinken aan de telefoon.

He tried not to sound sad on the phone.

Infinitive construction with 'te'.

8

De verdrietigste dag van mijn leven was toen we verhuisden.

The saddest day of my life was when we moved.

Superlative form 'verdrietigste'.

1

Ondanks het succes voelde zij zich diep verdrietig van binnen.

Despite the success, she felt deeply sad inside.

Adverb 'diep' used for intensity.

2

Het is een verdrietig feit dat armoede nog steeds bestaat.

It is a sad fact that poverty still exists.

Using the adjective to describe a 'feit' (fact).

3

Zijn stem klonk verdrietig toen hij over zijn vader sprak.

His voice sounded sad when he spoke about his father.

Verb 'klinken' used as a linking verb.

4

De verdrietige waarheid is dat we het niet gaan redden.

The sad truth is that we aren't going to make it.

Attributive use with 'waarheid'.

5

Zij schreef een verdrietig gedicht over het verlies van haar jeugd.

She wrote a sad poem about the loss of her youth.

Describing a creative work.

6

Hij was zichtbaar verdrietig, ook al zei hij niets.

He was visibly sad, even though he said nothing.

Adverb 'zichtbaar' modifying the adjective.

7

Het nieuws over de natuurramp liet een verdrietige indruk achter.

The news about the natural disaster left a sad impression.

Collocation 'een indruk achterlaten'.

8

Ik vind het een verdrietige gedachte dat we elkaar nooit meer zien.

I find it a sad thought that we will never see each other again.

Structure 'het een [adjective] [noun] vinden'.

1

De verdrietige ondertoon in zijn relaas was niet te negeren.

The sad undertone in his account could not be ignored.

Using 'ondertoon' for subtle meaning.

2

Het landschap oogde verdrietig onder de grijze herfsthemel.

The landscape looked sad under the gray autumn sky.

Personification of a landscape.

3

Zijn ogen stonden verdrietig, wat contrasteerde met zijn glimlach.

His eyes looked sad, which contrasted with his smile.

Idiomatic 'de ogen staan [adjective]'.

4

Het is een verdrietige constatering dat de dialoog is gestopt.

It is a sad observation that the dialogue has stopped.

Formal noun 'constatering'.

5

Zij putte troost uit het schrijven over haar verdrietige ervaringen.

She drew comfort from writing about her sad experiences.

Complex sentence with 'putten uit'.

6

De muziek had een verdrietige kwaliteit die de luisteraars raakte.

The music had a sad quality that touched the listeners.

Abstract use of 'kwaliteit'.

7

Het was een verdrietig gezicht om de verlaten fabriek te zien.

It was a sad sight to see the abandoned factory.

Noun phrase 'een verdrietig gezicht' (a sad sight).

8

Hij reflecteerde op de verdrietige keuzes uit zijn verleden.

He reflected on the sad choices from his past.

Abstract use with 'keuzes'.

1

De verdrietige vergankelijkheid van het bestaan is een centraal thema.

The sad transience of existence is a central theme.

Philosophical context.

2

Zijn oeuvre wordt gekenmerkt door een verdrietige hunkering naar huis.

His body of work is characterized by a sad longing for home.

Literary analysis terms like 'oeuvre' and 'hunkering'.

3

Het was een verdrietig relaas van gemiste kansen en verloren liefdes.

It was a sad account of missed opportunities and lost loves.

Sophisticated vocabulary like 'relaas'.

4

Zij analyseerde de verdrietige implicaties van het nieuwe beleid.

She analyzed the sad implications of the new policy.

Academic context.

5

De verdrietige schoonheid van de ruïne trok veel kunstenaars aan.

The sad beauty of the ruin attracted many artists.

Oxymoron-like pairing of 'verdrietig' and 'schoonheid'.

6

Hij verwoordde zijn verdrietige gemoedstoestand met grote precisie.

He articulated his sad state of mind with great precision.

Formal term 'gemoedstoestand'.

7

De film vormt een verdrietige reflectie op de menselijke conditie.

The film constitutes a sad reflection on the human condition.

Abstract philosophical phrasing.

8

Er schuilt een verdrietige ironie in zijn uiteindelijke triomf.

There lies a sad irony in his final triumph.

Using 'schuilen' (to hide/lurk) with 'ironie'.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

erg verdrietig
verdrietig worden
zich verdrietig voelen
een verdrietig gezicht
verdrietig om iets
verdrietig over iets
een verdrietige film
diep verdrietig
zichtbaar verdrietig
een beetje verdrietig

सामान्य वाक्यांश

Wat verdrietig!

— How sad! Used to show empathy when someone shares bad news.

Je hebt je baan verloren? Wat verdrietig!

Verdrietig nieuws

— Sad news. Used to introduce a tragic or unhappy report.

We hebben vandaag verdrietig nieuws ontvangen.

Een verdrietige zaak

— A sad affair/matter. Used for unfortunate situations.

De scheiding is een verdrietige zaak voor de kinderen.

Maak je niet verdrietig

— Don't make yourself sad. Often said to someone dwelling on something.

Maak je niet verdrietig over dingen die je niet kunt veranderen.

Verdrietige ogen

— Sad eyes. Describing someone's expression.

Zij keek me aan met haar verdrietige ogen.

Zich verdrietig tonen

— To show oneself as sad. Formal way to say someone appeared sad.

De minister toonde zich verdrietig over de gebeurtenissen.

Een verdrietig afscheid

— A sad farewell.

Het was een verdrietig afscheid op het vliegveld.

Verdrietig stemmen

— To make someone sad (literally: to tune someone sad).

Die beelden stemmen mij erg verdrietig.

Iemand verdrietig maken

— To make someone sad.

Je woorden maken mij erg verdrietig.

Een verdrietige herinnering

— A sad memory.

Dat is een verdrietige herinnering aan mijn jeugd.

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

verdrietig vs zielig

Means 'pitiful'. Don't use it to mean you are sad, or you will sound like you are begging for pity.

verdrietig vs triest

Usually refers to a situation. 'Ik ben triest' is less common than 'Ik ben verdrietig'.

verdrietig vs jammer

Means 'a pity'. Use it for minor things like missing a bus, not for deep emotional pain.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"Om te huilen zo verdrietig"

— So sad it makes you want to cry. Used for emphasis.

Het verhaal was om te huilen zo verdrietig.

informal
"Gedeelde smart is halve smart"

— Shared sorrow is half sorrow (related to the noun verdriet/smart).

Praat erover met je vrienden, want gedeelde smart is halve smart.

proverb
"Zijn verdriet verdrinken"

— To drown one's sorrows (usually in alcohol).

Na het ontslag ging hij naar de kroeg om zijn verdriet te verdrinken.

neutral
"In verdriet ondergedompeld zijn"

— To be immersed in sadness/grief.

De hele familie was in verdriet ondergedompeld.

formal
"Verdriet hebben van iets"

— To suffer/be sad because of something (often a regret).

Hij heeft veel verdriet van zijn gemaakte fouten.

neutral
"Een brok in de keel krijgen"

— To get a lump in one's throat (from sadness).

Ik kreeg een brok in mijn keel toen ze het verdrietige liedje zong.

neutral
"Tranen met tuiten huilen"

— To cry buckets (very sad).

Het kind was zo verdrietig dat het tranen met tuiten huilde.

informal
"Met een zwaar hart"

— With a heavy heart.

Met een zwaar hart vertelde hij het verdrietige nieuws.

neutral
"Iemand het hart breken"

— To break someone's heart (making them extremely verdrietig).

Zij brak zijn hart toen ze hem verliet.

neutral
"Zijn hart luchten"

— To vent/pour out one's heart (to relieve sadness).

Hij moest even zijn hart luchten omdat hij zo verdrietig was.

neutral

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

verdrietig vs boos

Both are basic emotions taught together.

Boos means angry; verdrietig means sad. One is about aggression/frustration, the other about sorrow.

Ik ben niet boos op je, ik ben alleen verdrietig dat je loog.

verdrietig vs moe

Physical tiredness can look like sadness.

Moe is physical exhaustion; verdrietig is emotional pain.

Ik ben niet verdrietig, ik ben gewoon heel moe van het werk.

verdrietig vs alleen

Being alone often leads to being sad.

Alleen means alone (physical state); verdrietig is an emotion.

Ik ben alleen, maar ik ben niet verdrietig.

verdrietig vs bang

Both are negative emotions.

Bang means afraid; verdrietig means sad.

Ik ben niet meer bang voor de hond, maar ik ben verdrietig dat hij weg is.

verdrietig vs triest

Very similar meaning.

Triest is often used for situations ('een trieste dag'), while verdrietig is for people ('een verdrietige man').

Het is een trieste situatie, en ik ben er verdrietig om.

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

A1

S + zijn + verdrietig.

Ik ben verdrietig.

A2

S + zijn + verdrietig + omdat + clause.

Hij is verdrietig omdat hij zijn sleutels kwijt is.

B1

S + voelen + zich + verdrietig.

Zij voelt zich een beetje verdrietig vandaag.

B2

Het + maken + O + verdrietig + om + te + inf.

Het maakt me verdrietig om dit te horen.

C1

De + verdrietige + N + van + S.

De verdrietige blik van de oude man.

C2

Er + schuilen + een + verdrietige + N + in + S.

Er schuilt een verdrietige schoonheid in dit schilderij.

A2

S + worden + verdrietig.

Ik word verdrietig van die film.

B1

S + lijken + verdrietig.

Je lijkt een beetje verdrietig, is er iets?

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

het verdriet (sadness/grief)
de verdrietigheid (the state of being sad - less common)

क्रिया

verdrieten (to sadden/grieve - formal/archaic)
betreuren (to regret/be sad about)

विशेषण

verdrietig (sad)
onverdrietig (not sad - rare)
verdrietwekkend (sadness-inducing)

संबंधित

bedroefd
triest
jammer
rouw
traan

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

Extremely high in daily Dutch.

सामान्य गलतियाँ
  • Ik ben zielig. Ik ben verdrietig.

    'Zielig' means 'pitiful' or 'pathetic'. Use 'verdrietig' for 'sad'.

  • De verdrietig man. De verdrietige man.

    Adjectives before 'de-words' need an -e ending.

  • Ik ben verdrietig voor de film. Ik ben verdrietig om de film.

    Use 'om' or 'over' for the cause, not 'voor'.

  • Het is een verdrietige liedje. Het is een verdrietig liedje.

    Diminutives (ending in -je) are always 'het-words', and indefinite 'het-words' don't get an -e on the adjective.

  • Ik voel verdrietig. Ik voel me verdrietig.

    The verb 'voelen' is reflexive when describing your own state: 'zich voelen'.

सुझाव

Adjective Endings

Always check if the noun is a 'de' or 'het' word before placing 'verdrietig' in front of it. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Use 'Jammer' for small things

Don't use 'verdrietig' if you just missed the train. Use 'jammer' (pity) or 'balen' (to be bummed). 'Verdrietig' is for real emotional pain.

The '-ig' sound

Practice saying 'uh-ch' at the end of the word. Avoid the English 'ig' sound at all costs to sound more native.

Showing Empathy

When someone tells you something sad, saying 'Wat verdrietig' is a perfect, safe, and kind response.

Vary your words

In a long story, try to use 'verdrietig', 'triest', and 'het verdriet' to avoid repeating the same word too often.

Intonation

Let your voice drop slightly when saying 'verdrietig' to match the emotion of the word.

Context clues

If you hear 'huilen' (crying) or 'tranen' (tears), the word 'verdrietig' is likely to follow.

The 'Driet' link

Link 'driet' to 'drip' (like a dripping tear) to remember that it means sad.

Reflexive use

Remember that 'Ik voel me verdrietig' is very common and sounds very natural.

Compound words

Learn words like 'liefdesverdriet' (heartbreak) to expand your vocabulary quickly.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Think of 'Ver-driet-ig' as 'For-dread-y'. When you dread something, you feel sad and unhappy. The 'driet' part sounds like 'dreat' (dread).

दृश्य संबंध

Imagine a 'V' shape made of falling tears. The 'V' stands for 'Verdrietig'.

Word Web

huilen tranen pijn verlies blij (antonym) hart troost gevoel

चैलेंज

Try to use 'verdrietig' in a sentence about a movie you watched recently. Then, try to use the noun 'verdriet' in a sentence about a historical event.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

Derived from the Middle Dutch word 'verdrieten', which meant to cause pain, trouble, or boredom. It is related to the German 'verdrießen'.

मूल अर्थ: Causing annoyance or distress.

Germanic

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

Always use 'verdrietig' with empathy. In some contexts, like the death of a loved one, 'bedroefd' might be more respectful in writing.

English speakers often use 'upset' or 'bummed', but Dutch speakers will almost always use 'verdrietig' for the same range of emotions.

The song 'Verdrietig' by various Dutch artists. The character 'Verdriet' (Sadness) in the Dutch dub of the movie 'Inside Out'. Dutch children's literature often features 'verdrietige' characters to teach empathy.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

Loss of a pet

  • Mijn hond is dood.
  • Ik ben zo verdrietig.
  • Ik mis hem erg.
  • Hij was mijn beste vriend.

Failing an exam

  • Ik ben gezakt.
  • Dat maakt me verdrietig.
  • Ik heb zo hard geleerd.
  • Wat een teleurstelling.

A breakup

  • Het is uit.
  • Ik heb liefdesverdriet.
  • Ik voel me erg alleen.
  • Het is een verdrietige tijd.

Watching a movie

  • Wat een verdrietig einde.
  • Ik moest huilen.
  • De hoofdpersoon was zo alleen.
  • Het was een triest verhaal.

Missing home

  • Ik heb heimwee.
  • Ik ben verdrietig omdat ik mijn familie mis.
  • Ik wil graag naar huis.
  • Het is hier niet hetzelfde.

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"Ben je wel eens verdrietig zonder dat je weet waarom?"

"Wat was de laatste verdrietige film die je hebt gezien?"

"Wat doe jij meestal als je je verdrietig voelt?"

"Vind je het moeilijk om te laten zien dat je verdrietig bent?"

"Maakt regenachtig weer jou ook een beetje verdrietig?"

डायरी विषय

Schrijf over een moment waarop je je heel verdrietig voelde. Wat is er gebeurd?

Welke muziek luister je als je verdrietig bent? Waarom helpt deze muziek?

Is er een boek of film die je altijd verdrietig maakt? Beschrijf het verhaal.

Hoe troost jij een vriend die verdrietig is? Welke woorden gebruik je?

Denk je dat het goed is om je verdrietig te voelen? Waarom wel of niet?

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

It is neutral. You can use it in any situation, from talking to a child to writing a letter to a friend or even in a news report.

'Verdrietig' is the standard word for 'sad'. 'Bedroefd' is more formal and literary, often used in contexts like funerals or formal condolences.

Add an -e when it comes before a 'de-word' (de verdrietige man) or a plural noun (de verdrietige kinderen). Don't add it after a verb (hij is verdrietig) or before an indefinite 'het-word' (een verdrietig kind).

You can, and people will understand you, but 'Ik ben verdrietig' sounds much more natural to Dutch speakers.

You can use either 'Ik ben verdrietig om...' or 'Ik ben verdrietig over...'. Both are correct and commonly used.

The noun is 'het verdriet', which means 'the sadness' or 'the grief'.

No. 'Verdrietig' is a normal emotion. 'Depressief' is a clinical term for depression, which is a medical condition.

Yes, it can describe things that make you feel sad, like 'een verdrietig liedje' (a sad song) or 'een verdrietige film' (a sad movie).

A common colloquial way to say you are a bit down is 'Ik zit niet zo lekker in mijn vel'.

It is a soft, gutteral sound made in the back of the throat, similar to the 'ch' in 'Bach' or 'Loch'.

खुद को परखो 200 सवाल

writing

Write a sentence using 'verdrietig' and 'omdat'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Translate: 'The sad boy is crying because he lost his ball.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Describe a sad movie you have seen using the word 'verdrietig'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a short dialogue where someone shows empathy using 'Wat verdrietig!'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

How do you feel today? Use 'verdrietig' or its opposite.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence with 'de verdrietige vrouw'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence with 'een verdrietig liedje'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Translate: 'I became sad when I heard the news.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Use 'verdrietig over' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Use 'verdrietig om' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence with the superlative 'verdrietigste'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence with 'zich verdrietig voelen'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Describe a sad situation in your city.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a formal sentence using 'bedroefd'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Translate: 'Why are those children so sad?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a sad memory.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Use the word 'liefdesverdriet' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence using 'verdrietig' and 'vandaag'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Translate: 'It is a sad day for the family.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a sad book.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Describe a time you felt verdrietig.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Pronounce 'verdrietig' clearly, focusing on the '-ig' ending.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Tell a short sad story (een verdrietig verhaal) in Dutch.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

How would you comfort a sad friend? Say it in Dutch.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Talk about a movie that made you feel verdrietig.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Ask someone why they are sad in Dutch.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I am a little bit sad because it is raining.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Practice saying: 'Wat een verdrietig nieuws!'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Describe the difference between 'verdrietig' and 'blij' in Dutch.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The sad boy is sitting on the bench.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Talk about something that makes you 'verdrietig' in the world.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I feel sad about the loss of my dog.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Explain the word 'liefdesverdriet' to a friend.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'Don't be sad, everything will be okay.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Describe a 'verdrietige sfeer' you once experienced.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I became sad when I heard the song.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Talk about a 'verdrietig moment' in a book.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'She has such sad eyes.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Practice the superlative: 'Dit is de verdrietigste dag.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Explain why 'zielig' is different from 'verdrietig'.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Ik ben zo verdrietig om mijn opa.' What is the person sad about?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the word: 'Verdrietige'. Is it used for a 'de' or 'het' word?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the tone: 'Wat verdrietig...' Is the speaker happy or showing empathy?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Zij werd verdrietig van de film.' What made her sad?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen for the adverb: 'Hij is een beetje verdrietig.' How sad is he?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the question: 'Ben je verdrietig?' What is the answer if the person is crying?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the phrase: 'Een verdrietig liedje.' Is the ending of the adjective correct?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Het nieuws is erg verdrietig.' What is 'erg' doing in this sentence?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the speaker: 'Ik voel me niet zo lekker in mijn vel.' Does this mean they are happy?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the word: 'Bedroefd'. Is this formal or informal?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'De verdrietige man liep naar huis.' Where was the man going?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sound of 'ig' in 'verdrietig'. Does it sound like 'egg' or 'uch'?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Waarom ben je zo verdrietig?' What is the first word?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the phrase: 'Diep verdrietig'. What does 'diep' mean here?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Het maakt me verdrietig.' Who is feeling sad?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

क्या यह मददगार था?
अभी तक कोई टिप्पणी नहीं। अपने विचार साझा करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें!