Dutch pronunciation for English speakers

Dutch is close to English in many words. Some sounds are new, and the spelling hides vowel length. Here is what to watch.

The g and ch

The Dutch g and ch come from the back of the throat. They are rough, like the ch in Scottish "loch". In the south of the Netherlands and in Belgium, the g is often softer. Ask your partner which they use.

The ui sound

"ui" has no close English match. Say "ow" with your lips rounded forward, as in "huis" and "uit". It takes practice.

Ij and ei

"ij" and "ei" sound the same. They are close to the "ay" in "say". Practise "mijn" and "klein".

Long and short vowels

Dutch spelling shows vowel length by doubling. "Maan" (moon) has a long a. "Man" has a short a. An open syllable also lengthens a vowel: "manen". Listen for the difference. It changes the word.

W and v

W is between English w and v, made with the teeth barely touching the lip. V is often softer than in English, and in many accents it sounds like f.

The r

The r varies. It can be a tap, a roll or made in the throat. You will hear all three. Choose one and use it steadily.

How to practise

• Learn new words by sound as well as spelling.
• Record yourself and compare with a native speaker.
• Ask your partner to say pairs such as "man" and "maan".

A native speaker will hear what you miss. See how to find a language partner, or Dutch on Nearly Fluent.