Learning Dutch can open up new opportunities and enhance your experience of living in the Netherlands. Here are four great reasons to learn the language – especially if you’re living in the Netherlands.
Shopping for essentials is one of the first things many people do after moving to a new country. Are you one of these people? Then consider the following question: What was or were the first thing(s) you bought in the Netherlands?
a. Dutch cheese b. haring c. drop d. Dutch language course e. ___________(other)
Is your choice included? Are any of these choices irrelevant for you? Perhaps a language course isn’t one of your top priorities, but it really should be! Here are four reasons why:
1. Learning Dutch opens a new world You’ll do fine in English here, but all Dutch (informal) conversations will pass you by; a whole new world opens when you understand and speak a bit of Dutch. People will appreciate your effort, and making friends and contacts will be far easier.
2. Language and culture are strongly linked
Learning Dutch will give you an insider's view of the culture; for example, it will become clear why Dutch people can sometimes come across as rude when they speak English. The Dutch prefer a direct style of communication, and a literal translation in that style can often seem very blunt to a foreigner.
3. Dutch is an interesting language Our language has a lot of vowels, and you will learn to distinguish between the subtle nuances in pronunciation. You will have to practise to pronounce the hard ‘g’ sound – the sound that matches Dutch weather so well. You will also discover the all-important structure of our language as you learn it.
4. Increase your understanding of your own language and other languages Most people don’t put too much thought into their own language – everything comes together automatically, so why would you? However, learning a new language makes you compare it with your own language and with any other language you know. You will discover similarities and differences, and you may even uncover the influences of your own language when you try to speak Dutch.
Which Dutch language course suits you?
You can take a course that suits your own ambitions. The courses are a combination of self-study and (online) classes with an experienced teacher. You can learn at your own pace or choose a fast-track course. The courses can be held online and in-company.
Everyday Dutch
Do you want to learn the Dutch language to use it in everyday life? Join a course in which you will reach an elementary level (A2). You will learn frequently used sentences and expressions for going shopping, travelling and talking Dutch to new friends, colleagues and classmates.
Dutch for work and study level A2 and higher (B1= inburgeringsexamen)/B2/C1/C2)
Do you want to learn Dutch at a high(er) level? And maybe even apply for the NT2 State Exam? Join a course that offers a solid basis for using the Dutch language. You can enrol at different levels, from beginner to upper intermediate. At the highest level you will be able to speak Dutch comfortably and naturally. You will be able to understand difficult texts, write detailed texts in a wide area of topics, express your opinion and participate in more complex discussions.
Find out more about Dutch of Course and feel free to contact us: info@dutchofcourse.nl