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Nederlands
vliegen — meaning in English: to fly
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to fly
verloochenen
winter
vliegen
repetitie
afspraak
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informal
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'vliegen' in everyday conversations when discussing travel plans, such as saying, 'We gaan naar Spanje vliegen' (We're going to fly to Spain). It's also common in informal contexts, like chatting with friends about weekend getaways or discussing the logistics of a business trip.
Synonyms & nuances
'Vliegen' is often used in the general sense of flying, whereas 'zweven' refers to floating or hovering, suggesting a more gentle or effortless motion. You would use 'vliegen' when discussing flights or travel, while 'zweven' might be more appropriate in poetic contexts or when describing how a bird glides.
Culture
The word 'vliegen' comes from Old Dutch, where it was associated with the concept of quick movement. In Dutch culture, flying is not just a means of transportation; it often symbolizes freedom and the desire for adventure, especially in a country with a strong aviation sector, such as the Netherlands, known for its major airports like Schiphol.
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