afstand — meaning in English: distance

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Guess the translation for distance

kleding

maar

tijdsgeest

afstand

vier

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neutral common

Usage

Native Dutch speakers use 'afstand' in a variety of situations, such as discussing travel plans or physical separation between objects. For example, one might say, 'De afstand tussen Amsterdam en Rotterdam is ongeveer 80 kilometer' (The distance between Amsterdam and Rotterdam is about 80 kilometers), or during a conversation about emotional distance in relationships, like, 'Er is een grote afstand tussen ons' (There is a great distance between us).

Synonyms & nuances

'Afstand' can be closely related to words like 'afstandelijkheid' (aloofness) when discussing emotional distance, but it retains a more neutral tone regarding physical measurements. While 'afstand' refers specifically to the concept of distance, other terms like 'ruimte' (space) might apply in contexts where the focus is more on area than measurement.

Culture

'Afstand' is derived from the Old Dutch word 'afstance', which signifies the act of standing apart. This concept has deep cultural significance in Dutch society, reflecting both physical and emotional separations that are often discussed in literature and art. The evolution of 'afstand' has mirrored societal changes, especially in how distance affects interpersonal relationships in a digital age.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'afstand'?

'Afstand' in plural is 'afstanden'. You would use it when referring to multiple distances, for example, 'De afstanden tussen de steden zijn verschillend' (The distances between the cities vary).

Q.How do you use 'afstand' in a sentence?

'Afstand' is used to describe physical or metaphorical distance. For instance, you might say, 'Houd afstand van die hete pan' (Keep your distance from that hot pan) or 'Er is een emotionele afstand tussen hen' (There is an emotional distance between them).

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'afstand'?

One common mistake is confusing 'afstand' with 'ruimte', which means 'space.' While both can refer to distance, 'afstand' is more about measurement or separation, whereas 'ruimte' pertains to area or volume. Thus, it’s essential to choose the right word based on context.

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Dutch Vocabulary