If you want to say hi in Dutch, you would simply say “hoi”. The more formal hello is “hallo”. Regional varieties of “hi” include “heuj”, “alo” and “huijj” but sticking to “hoi” or “hallo” is generally all you need.
The common greeting in the Netherlands is a handshake along with a nod of the head. This form of address is usually short. Among friends and family, it is common to greet one another by kissing on alternating cheeks three times. Take both your hands out of your pockets if you shake someone's hand.
How to Say Goodbye in Dutch. If you want to say “goodbye” in Dutch, you have plenty of options. The most common in probably “dag.” But “doeg,” “doei,” “doe-doei,” “joe,” “hoje,” “tjuus,” and “houdoe” are all either other general ways or regional ways to say “goodbye.”
The US Department of State classifies Dutch as an easy language for English speakers to learn. This is because the languages share similarities. But while it might be similar, there are some aspects that many English speakers struggle with when they learn Dutch, such as pronunciation and sentence structures.
So how do you respond to thank you in Dutch? There are two common ways: Graag gedaan – “glad to have been of help” Geen dank – “No need for thanks”
Basic Etiquette
Be punctual when you can and always give a fair warning of your tardiness if you anticipate delays. It is considered rude to keep people waiting. It is polite to cover your mouth when yawning. It is rude to speak whilst chewing gum.
Shake hands with everyone individually including children. Very close friends may greet each other by air kissing near the cheek three times, starting with the left cheek. Most Dutch only use first names with family and close friends. Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis.
When introduced to someone new in the Netherlands, you'll typically need to shake their hand briefly. Dutch handshakes are firm, swift, and often followed with "hello," "hi," or "good morning," (or afternoon or evening depending on the time of day).
In the Netherlands it is considered quite normal for Dutch people to greet each other with three kisses on the cheek. It is also custom to do the same again when saying good bye.
The most casual way to say Good Morning in Dutch is the shortened version of Goedemorgen, “Morgen.” It's slightly more abrupt and familiar than using the full Dutch greeting.
Eikel, lul, klootzak, muts, doos, kuttekop, kutwijf
In Amsterdam, these terms are used freely and easily, especially in traffic. Kankerlijer (sufferer of cancer) is also popular and comes from the popular use in Dutch of diseases in swear words.
Direct Communication: Dutch tend to have a direct communication style, speaking quite frankly in a straightforward manner. At times, this may be misunderstood as rude, especially if one is not used to forthrightness. However, the Dutch tend to view direct communication as a well-appreciated form of openness.
Meteorologisch (meteorological) is the most difficult Dutch word to pronounce, according to Dutch language experts. The Onze Taal language organisation used its Facebook page to draw up a list of the 10 most difficult Dutch words and encouraged people to vote.
"What is your name?" in Dutch
Hoe heet u?
Where does going Dutch come from? Going Dutch means that every person in a group of diners or imbibers pays for their themselves. It's popularly thought the expression originated as a British slur towards the perceived stinginess of Dutch people.