vakantie — meaning in English: vacation

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Guess the translation for vacation

vriend

discussie

vakantie

wie

schaduwzijden

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'vakantie' when discussing their travel plans, summer getaways, or holiday breaks. For example, you might hear a conversation about planning a family vacation to the beach or discussing where to go during the school holidays.

Synonyms & nuances

'Vakantie' is quite specific as it refers to a holiday or vacation period, whereas 'vrije tijd' means 'free time' and is more general. You would use 'vakantie' when referring to a planned escape from work or school, while 'vrije tijd' could refer to any leisurely activity during free hours.

Culture

'Vakantie' stems from the Latin word 'vacantia,' meaning 'emptiness' or 'freedom.' In the Netherlands, vacationing is an essential part of life, often associated with seasonal festivals and local traditions. The Dutch take their holidays seriously, often planning trips well in advance, particularly during school breaks.

FAQ

Q.What does 'vakantie' mean in English?

'Vakantie' translates to 'vacation' in English and refers to a time when one takes a break from work or school to relax or travel.

Q.How do you pronounce 'vakantie'?

'Vakantie' is pronounced as 'vah-KAHN-tee.' The emphasis is on the second syllable, and the 'v' is pronounced like an English 'v.'

Q.Can 'vakantie' be used in any context?

'Vakantie' is best used in contexts related to travel or time off, such as going on holiday. It’s generally not used to refer to a single day off or short breaks, where you might use 'dagje vrij' (day off) instead.

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Dutch Vocabulary