I'm learning
Nederlands
voor — meaning in English: for
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
for
geduldig
wijsheid
voor
rijden
twintig
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Dutch for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native Dutch speakers commonly use the word 'voor' in everyday conversations to express purpose or intention. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Ik heb een cadeau voor jou,' meaning 'I have a gift for you,' when giving a present to a friend. It's also frequently used in more formal situations, such as in business emails, where one might write, 'Dit is de informatie voor uw aanvraag,' translating to 'This is the information for your application.'
Synonyms & nuances
'Voor' can be compared to 'ten behoeve van,' which means 'on behalf of' or 'for the benefit of.' While 'voor' is used in general contexts to denote purpose or benefit, 'ten behoeve van' is more formal and specific, often used in legal or official documents. Choosing 'voor' is typically more suitable for casual conversation.
Culture
'Voor' has roots in Old Dutch, tracing back to the Proto-Germanic word 'fura,' which means 'before' or 'in front of.' This etymology reflects the word's evolution over centuries, from indicating spatial relations to encompassing a broader range of meanings, including purpose and benefit. In Dutch culture, the use of 'voor' is integral to expressing thoughtfulness, especially in social contexts, symbolizing care and consideration for others.
FAQ
