Understanding Seasons, Weather, and Climate in Dutch
The Four Seasons in Dutch
In the Netherlands, the year is divided into four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. These seasons bring a variety of weather patterns and climates that Dutch speakers discuss in everyday conversation. Understanding these terms is key for anyone looking to improve their Dutch writing and speaking skills.
Lente
Spring
Zomer
Summer
Herfst
Autumn
Winter
Winter
Common Weather Vocabulary
Weather plays a huge part in day-to-day conversations in Dutch. Learning how to express various weather conditions will help you interact more naturally with Dutch speakers. Here's a list of some common Dutch weather terms and phrases:
Weer
Weather
Het regent
It is raining
Het is zonnig
It is sunny
Bewolkt
Cloudy
Winderig
Windy
Climate Differences in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate, influenced by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. This results in mild summers and cool winters, with no extreme temperatures. Such climate conditions are reflected in the way Dutch people talk about their weather.
Expressing Preferences for Weather
Discussing weather preferences in Dutch can help you engage in casual conversations. Here are some useful phrases:
Ik geef de voorkeur aan zonnig weer
I prefer sunny weather
Ik hou niet van regen
I don't like rain
Koud weer is fijn
Cold weather is nice
Weather-Related Activities
Different seasons and weather conditions influence activities in the Netherlands. For instance, when it snows, many Dutch people enjoy schaatsen (ice skating) on natural ice. In warmer seasons, biking is a popular activity.
Schaatsen
Ice skating
Fietsen
Biking
Picknicken
Picnicking
Een sneeuwpop maken
Building a snowman
Talking About the Weather
Finally, some phrases to describe the weather, which can serve as conversation starters.
Hoe is het weer vandaag?
What's the weather like today?
Het lijkt alsof het gaat regenen
It looks like it's going to rain
Laten we van de zon genieten
Let's enjoy the sunshine
Further Reading
- Duolingo - Dutch Weather
Practice Dutch weather vocabulary with Duolingo.
- Learn Dutch - Weather Phrases
Explore how to talk about the weather in Dutch.
- Babbel - Dutch Seasons
Understanding seasons in the Dutch language and culture.
- Transparent Language - Dutch Weather Forecast
Learn phrases for discussing weather forecasts in Dutch.
- FluentU - Dutch Weather Vocabulary
Expand your Dutch vocabulary related to weather and seasons.