Exploring the Etiquette of Addressing Dutch People

The question of how to refer to a Dutch person often confuses both locals and foreigners alike. Whether to call them 'Dutch', 'Netherlanders', or 'Hollanders' can be a source of intrigue and sometimes confusion. Let's delve into the nuances behind these terms and explore the preferred titles among the Dutch themselves.

Understanding the Terms

Yes, you can easily and correctly refer to a Dutch person as a Netherlander. In Dutch, this term is 'Nederlander', and it specifically refers to someone from the Netherlands, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and efficient society. The term 'Netherlander' is widely accepted and understood both within and outside the country.

The Flemish Exception

It's worth noting that the Dutch term for the region (but not the people) is 'Nederland', which is Latin for 'Low Countries'. This term is used interchangeably with 'Pays-Bas' in French. Some intricate linguistic distinctions come into play with the Flemish, who are native to the northern part of Belgium, which overlaps with the southern border of the Netherlands. While they speak Dutch, they prefer to be called 'Flemish' rather than 'Netherlanders' or 'Dutch' or 'Hollanders', reflecting a regional identity distinct from the Dutch.

Regional Preferences

It's interesting to note the regional variations within the Netherlands itself. Different provinces have their own preferred titles:

Friesland: The people here prefer to be called 'Frisian' (Fries in Dutch). Groningen: They prefer to be known as 'Groningens' or 'Groningers' (Groninger in Dutch). Amsterdam: In Amsterdam, residents may prefer to be addressed as 'Amsterdammers', or they use the term 'Schorem' when they don’t wear a hat, which is a regional slang term reflecting their informal identity. Pummlers: While Amsterdam and Friesland have their own terms, other regions prefer to be called 'Pummlers', which is a term they use amongst themselves, signifying a sense of belonging.

Historical Context

Let's take a look at the historical context behind these terms. The English term 'Dutch' has a complex etymology. During the Middle Ages, the Germans were often referred to as 'Dutches' or 'Dutch'. The English then started referring to the people of Germany as 'Germans' instead, calling them 'Dutch' when talking about the Netherlands. Meanwhile, the Dutch themselves call themselves 'Nederlander'. The word 'Dutch' was a term of convenience, and it stuck, even though linguistically and culturally, the Dutch and the Deutsch (the German people) are quite distinct.

Abroad and in the Americas

When encountering Dutch people abroad, it's common to hear them referred to as 'Hollanders'. This term is often used in the United States, for example, as Americans are more familiar with the term 'Holland' and may not realize it encompasses the entire country. This usage can sometimes lead to geographical confusion, as 'Holland' is often a colloquial term for the western provinces of North and South Holland, located in the northwestern part of the Netherlands.

Conclusion

For those familiar with the Dutch landscape, it's clear that there are multiple ways to refer to Dutch people, each with its own cultural importance and regional distinctions. Whether it's 'Dutch', 'Netherlander', or 'Hollanders', the term you use can reflect a level of familiarity or an appreciation for the historical and linguistic intricacies of the Dutch-speaking world. Whether you choose to call them by their formal names or embrace the more colloquial terms, the most important thing is to greet them with respect and an open mind.

Keywords: Dutch, Netherlander, Hollanders, Nederlander, Nationality