kijken — meaning in English: to look

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for to look

mooie

hallo

kijken

tenzij

taxi

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Dutch for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native Dutch speakers use the word 'kijken' in various everyday situations. For instance, you might hear someone say 'Ik kijk naar de sterren' (I am looking at the stars) while stargazing or 'Kijk uit!' (Look out!) when warning someone of danger. It's a versatile term often employed in both casual conversations and when giving directions.

Synonyms & nuances

'Kijken' is often compared to 'zien,' which means 'to see.' While 'zien' emphasizes the act of perception, 'kijken' implies a more intentional action, as in actively looking at something rather than just seeing it passively. You would choose 'kijken' when you want to convey that you are directing your attention to something specific.

Culture

'Kijken' is deeply rooted in Dutch culture and reflects the importance of observation. The word is derived from the Old Dutch 'kīkan,' which means to see or behold. Interestingly, it’s often used in combination with other words to form expressions like 'kijken naar' (to look at) and 'uitkijken' (to be careful), showcasing how integral it is to communication.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 'kijken' and 'zien'?

'Kijken' refers to the action of looking intentionally, while 'zien' simply means to see, often without purpose. For example, you 'kijkt' at a painting to appreciate it, but you might 'zien' a painting as you walk by.

Q.How do you conjugate 'kijken' in the present tense?

'Kijken' is a regular verb, and in the present tense, it conjugates as follows: 'ik kijk' (I look), 'jij kijkt' (you look), 'hij/zij kijkt' (he/she looks), and 'wij/jullie kijken' (we/you all look).

Q.Can 'kijken' be used in a figurative sense?

Yes, 'kijken' can be used figuratively in expressions like 'kijken naar de toekomst' (looking towards the future), where it conveys a sense of contemplation or planning, beyond just the physical act of looking.

Learn dutch with Maspeak →

Dutch Vocabulary