18+ Crazy Dutch Swear Words And Insults

Ever wondered why the Dutch are considered some of the most direct people in the world? Well, their collection of Dutch swear words and Dutch insults might give you a clue.

Unlike many other languages that stick to a standard set of curse words, Dutch profanity takes creative expression to a whole new level – mixing diseases, animals, and some truly bizarre combinations that'll make you wonder how they came up with them in the first place.

Curious? Stick around as I'll share here all the witty Dutch swear words and insults everyone learning this language should know. I'll also explain how to use each, what they literally mean, and provide cultural tidbits. Let's learn Dutch, shall we?

Disease-Based Dutch Swear Words

Kanker (Cancer)

One of the most controversial Dutch swear words, kanker is derived from the word for cancer. This word is considered extremely taboo in Dutch society and using it can cause serious social consequences. While younger generations sometimes use it more casually, many Dutch people find it deeply offensive due to the serious nature of the disease and its impact on families.

Grammatically speaking, this Dutch swear word can be used both as a standalone curse or as a prefix to intensify other words.

• Example: "Kanker op!" (Get lost!) - Extremely offensive way to tell someone to leave
• Example: "Kankerweer" (Cancer weather) - Highly offensive way to describe terrible weather

Tyfus (Typhoid)

Unlike kanker, tyfus is considered slightly less taboo as typhoid is no longer as prevalent in modern society. Dutch people often use this word as an adjective to describe something extremely unpleasant or as a standalone expletive. This Dutch swear word has historical roots in the Netherlands' battle with typhoid fever during earlier centuries.

• Example: "Krijg de tyfus!" (Get typhoid!) - Used when extremely angry at someone
• Example: "Dit is een tyfuszooi" (This is a typhoid mess) - Used to describe a terrible situation

Tering (Tuberculosis)

Tering comes from the Dutch word for tuberculosis and is one of the more commonly used disease-based swears. It's considered less severe than kanker but still quite offensive. The term gained popularity during times when tuberculosis was a major health crisis in the Netherlands, and its usage has surprisingly persisted into modern Dutch.

• Example: "Tering, wat is het koud!" (TB, it's so cold!) - Used to express extreme displeasure with the temperature
• Example: "Teringjong!" (TB kid!) - Used as an insult, though less severe than cancer-based insults

Pleuris (Pleurisy)

Pleuris is a Dutch slang for the word tuberculosis. While still offensive, it's considered one of the "milder" disease-based curses in Dutch. The word has evolved to be used in various contexts beyond its original meaning.

• Example: "De pleuris breekt uit" (All hell breaks loose, literally: the pleurisy breaks out) - Used to describe chaos
• Example: "Pleur op!" (Get lost!) - A somewhat milder way to tell someone to go away

Kolere (Cholera)

Derived from cholera, kolere has become somewhat disconnected from its disease origins in everyday usage. It's often used as an intensifier or general expletive. While still considered vulgar, it's one of the more "acceptable" disease-based swears, possibly because cholera is no longer a present threat in Dutch society.

• Example: "Wat een kolerezooi" (What a cholera mess) - Used to describe a chaotic situation
• Example: "Krijg de kolere" (Get cholera) - Used as a general curse, similar to "go to hell"

Teringlijer/Kankerlijer (TB sufferer/Cancer sufferer)

These terms combine disease names with "lijer" (sufferer) to create particularly harsh insults. They're considered extremely offensive as they directly reference people suffering from serious illnesses.

Please note that using these terms can cause serious social consequences and is generally seen as crossing a line even among those who regularly use Dutch profanity.

• Example: "Teringlijer!" - Used as a serious insult, though less severe than kankerlijer
• Example: "Kankerlijer!" - Considered one of the most offensive possible insults in Dutch

Krijg de pest (Get the plague)

This phrase literally wishes the plague upon someone. While it references one of history's most devastating diseases, it's considered less offensive than cancer-related curses in modern Dutch. The historical distance from the Black Death has somewhat lessened its impact compared to curses referencing modern diseases.

• Example: "Krijg toch de pest" (Just get the plague) - Used to express strong annoyance
• Example: "Pesthekel hebben aan" (To hate something as much as the plague) - Used to express extreme dislike

Everyday Dutch Swear Words

Kut (Common negative expression)

This word is arguably the most versatile Dutch swear word, similar to how English speakers use "f*ck" but generally considered less severe. What makes it unique is how naturally it fits into everyday Dutch conversation, whether as a standalone exclamation or combined with other words.

• Example: "Het is kut weer vandaag" (The weather is sh*t today) - Used as a casual adjective
• Example: "Ah kut!" (Ah f*ck!) - Common expression of frustration

Godverdomme (Goddamnit)

Originally a religious curse combining "God" and "condemn," godverdomme has evolved into one of the most frequently used Dutch expletives. While older generations might still consider it blasphemous, younger Dutch people use it quite casually. The word can be shortened to "verdomme" for a slightly milder impact.

• Example: "Godverdomme, ik ben te laat!" (Goddamnit, I'm late!) - Used to express strong frustration
• Example: "Verdomme zeg" (Damn, say) - A milder expression of annoyance

Potverdorie (Milder version of godverdomme)

This fascinating euphemism developed as a polite alternative to godverdomme, similar to how English speakers might say "darn" instead of "damn." It's considered socially acceptable in most situations and is often used around children or in professional settings.

• Example: "Potverdorie, ik ben mijn sleutels vergeten" (Darn it, I forgot my keys) - Safe for work expression
• Example: "Potverdorie nog aan toe!" (Gosh darn it!) - Used to express mild frustration

Oprotten (Get lost/buzz off)

A forceful way to tell someone to leave, oprotten carries more weight than its English translations might suggest. The term likely originated from the Dutch word for decay or rot (rotten) and has evolved into a commanding dismissal. While not the most severe swear word, it's definitely not polite conversation.

• Example: "Rot op met je gezeur!" (Get lost with your nagging!) - Used to express strong annoyance
• Example: "Oprotten, nu!" (Get lost, now!) - Used as a forceful command to leave

Stom (Stupid)

While technically not a swear word, stom has earned its place in Dutch cursing through its frequent use as an intensifier. Unlike its English counterpart "stupid," stom can be applied to situations, objects, and abstract concepts with remarkable flexibility. It's one of the safer options when you need to express frustration.

• Example: "Wat een stomme regel!" (What a stupid rule!) - Used to express disagreement with something
• Example: "Stom gedoe!" (Stupid hassle!) - Common expression of frustration with a situation

Anatomical Dutch Insults

Klootzak (Asshole)

Literally translating to "ball sack," klootzak has evolved into the Dutch equivalent of "a**hole." What makes this curse particularly interesting is how it's become a standard insult rather than a vulgar anatomical reference. While definitely offensive, it's considered less severe than disease-based curses and is commonly used to describe someone behaving poorly.

• Example: "Wat een klootzak die vent!" (What an a**hole that guy is!) - Used to describe someone's bad behavior
• Example: "Doe niet zo kloterig" (Don't be such a jerk) - A derivative form used as an adjective

Lul (Dick)

This versatile word serves as both a crude anatomical reference and a milder insult meaning "fool" or "idiot." What's fascinating about lul is how its severity changes based on context and tone. When used playfully between friends, it can even be almost affectionate, similar to how English speakers might use "dick" jokingly.

• Example: "Lul niet!" (Don't talk nonsense!) - Used to tell someone they're speaking rubbish
• Example: "Hé lul, kom hier!" (Hey dick, come here!) - Can be used playfully between friends

Eikel (Acorn/anatomical reference)

A clever double meaning, eikel refers to both an acorn and a male body part, making it one of the more creative Dutch insults. It's generally considered milder than klootzak or lul, often used to describe someone being foolish rather than malicious.

• Example: "Je bent echt een eikel!" (You're really a dick!) - Used to call someone foolish
• Example: "Wat een eikelige opmerking" (What a dickish comment) - Used to describe inappropriate behavior

Zakkenwasser (Ball-washer)

One of the more colorful Dutch insults, zakkenwasser combines anatomical reference with an occupation nobody wants. The term showcases the Dutch talent for creating compound insults that are both offensive and oddly specific. Despite its crude meaning, it's often used with a hint of humor.

• Example: "Rot op, zakkenwasser!" (Get lost, ball-washer!) - Used as a creative way to dismiss someone
• Example: "Die zakkenwasser heeft mijn fiets gestolen" (That ball-washer stole my bike) - Used to describe someone who's wronged you

Kutwijf (Bitch)

Combining kut with wijf (woman), this harsh insult demonstrates how Dutch can stack offensive terms to increase impact. It's considered quite offensive and should be used with extreme caution, as it's specifically gendered and carries strong misogynistic undertones.

• Example: "Wat een kutwijf!" (What a b*tch!) - Used as a strong insult toward women
• Example: "Ze gedraagt zich als een kutwijf" (She's behaving like a b*tch) - Used to criticize behavior

Creative/Unique Dutch Insults

Pannenkoek (Pancake)

Only the Dutch could turn a beloved breakfast food into an insult. What makes pannenkoek fascinating is its evolution from a harmless food item to a way of calling someone stupid or useless, but in an almost endearing way. It's one of the milder insults that even teachers might use, making it perfect for situations where you want to express disapproval without being too offensive.

• Example: "Je bent echt een pannenkoek!" (You're really a pancake!) - Used to call someone a fool, but gently
• Example: "Doe niet zo pannenkoekerig" (Don't be so pancake-like) - Used when someone's being silly or dumb

Mierenneuker (Ant-lover/Nitpicker)

This colorful term literally translates to "ant-f*cker" but is used to describe someone who's obsessively detail-oriented or pedantic. It's a prime example of Dutch crude humor meeting social commentary. While technically vulgar, it's often used in professional settings to criticize excessive perfectionism.

• Example: "Stop met mierenneuken!" (Stop nitpicking!) - Used when someone's being too perfectionist
• Example: "Die mierenneuker corrigeert elke kleine fout" (That nitpicker corrects every tiny mistake)

Droeftoeter (Sad trumpet)

One of the most uniquely Dutch insults, droeftoeter combines "droef" (sad) with "toeter" (trumpet/horn) to describe someone who's pathetic or pitiful. The visual imagery of a sad musical instrument perfectly captures the Dutch talent for creative insulting while maintaining a somewhat comical tone.

• Example: "Wat een droeftoeter ben jij" (What a sad trumpet you are) - Used to mock someone's pitiful behavior
• Example: "Loop niet zo te droeftoeteren" (Stop being such a sad trumpet) - Used when someone's complaining too much

Mafkees (Crazy person)

Combining "maf" (crazy) with "kees" (a common Dutch name), mafkees is a playful way to call someone crazy or weird. It's less offensive than many other insults and often carries a hint of affection, similar to calling someone a "goofball" in English.

• Example: "Die mafkees danst in de regen" (That crazy person is dancing in the rain) - Often used affectionately
• Example: "Je bent een complete mafkees!" (You're a complete nutcase!) - Used playfully

Franse slag (French job)

A fascinating culturally loaded insult that implies work or sex done hastily or carelessly. The term reflects historical Dutch-French relations and is used to criticize poor workmanship. It's particularly interesting because it reveals cultural biases while serving as a critique of quality.

• Example: "Dit is echt met de Franse slag gedaan" (This is really done the French way) - Used to criticize sloppy work
• Example: "Niet de Franse slag gebruiken!" (Don't do it the French way!) - Warning against rushing or being careless

Common Dutch Curse Words

Potjandosie (Mild expression of frustration)

This wonderfully Dutch euphemism is basically a child-friendly version of "godverdomme." What makes potjandosie special is its almost musical quality and complete lack of offensive meaning, while still satisfying the need to express frustration. It's particularly popular among older generations and those trying to break their swearing habits.

• Example: "Potjandosie, ik ben mijn sleutels weer vergeten!" (Gosh darn it, I forgot my keys again!)
• Example: "Potjandosie nog aan toe!" (Oh my goodness!) - Used to express surprise or frustration

Helaas pindakaas (Too bad, peanut butter)

Perhaps the most Dutch way possible to say "too bad," this playful expression combines "helaas" (unfortunately) with "pindakaas" (peanut butter) purely for the rhyme. It's a perfect example of how Dutch humor can defuse frustration with food-related wordplay. This phrase is especially popular in schools and among families.

• Example: "Helaas pindakaas, je bent te laat" (Too bad peanut butter, you're too late) - Used to soften disappointment
• Example: "Geen kaartjes meer? Helaas pindakaas!" (No more tickets? Too bad peanut butter!) - Used to express resignation

Jeetje/Jemig (Jeez)

These mild expressions are derived from "Jezus" but are completely acceptable in polite company. They're the Dutch equivalent of saying "jeez" or "gosh" and can be used in virtually any situation where you need to express surprise or mild frustration without offending anyone.

• Example: "Jeetje, wat een drukte hier!" (Jeez, it's so busy here!)
• Example: "Jemig, dat is duur!" (Gosh, that's expensive!)

Sjongejonge (Expression of amazement/frustration)

This quintessentially Dutch expression is a combination of sounds that somehow perfectly captures mild exasperation. It's completely inoffensive while still conveying genuine emotion, making it perfect for use around children or in professional settings.

• Example: "Sjongejonge, wat een weer!" (My goodness, what weather!)
• Example: "Sjongejonge zeg, moet je dit zien" (Goodness me, you have to see this)

Potverdikkie (Mild frustration)

Another creative euphemism for godverdomme, potverdikkie manages to capture the feeling of frustration while staying firmly in family-friendly territory. It's particularly useful in professional settings or when you want to express annoyance without causing offense.

• Example: "Potverdikkie, nu regent het weer" (Darn it, it's raining again)
• Example: "Potverdikkie nog aan toe!" (Gosh darn it!) - Used to express heightened frustration while remaining polite

Ready To Speak Dutch?

While some of these expressions might seem shocking or unusual to outsiders, they reflect the Dutch approach to language: direct, creative, and occasionally sprinkled with dark humor.

Remember though - just because you know these words doesn't mean you should use them freely. Dutch profanity can be particularly strong, and using the wrong word in the wrong context (especially those disease-based curses) could land you in some seriously awkward situations.

Want to learn Dutch the best way possible? Exciting news - Lingopie will be adding Dutch content to its platform soon! You'll be able to learn Dutch the way Dutch people actually speak it, complete with all the nuances, colloquialisms, and yes, even some of these colorful expressions (though maybe not the strongest ones!).

Keep an eye on Lingopie's platform for the Dutch language launch - it's the perfect way to continue your journey into one of Europe's most direct and expressive languages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dutch Swear Words and Dutch Cursing

Here's everything you need to know about Dutch profanity, Dutch insults, Dutch curse words, and Dutch swearing.

What makes Dutch swear words unique?

Dutch swearing is distinctive because it heavily features disease-based curses, something rarely found in other languages. While English swearing often focuses on bodily functions or religious references, Dutch profanity commonly includes references to illnesses like cancer (kanker), tuberculosis (tering), and cholera (kolere).

What is the most common Dutch curse word?

"Kut" is the most frequently used Dutch swear word in everyday speech. Unlike its English anatomical equivalent, it's considered relatively mild in Dutch culture and can be used as an adjective, exclamation, or prefix to intensify other words. "Godverdomme" (goddammit) is another extremely common Dutch curse word.

Are Dutch curse words really that offensive?

Disease-based Dutch swear words, especially those referencing cancer (kanker), are considered extremely offensive in Dutch society. However, anatomical curses like "kut" or "lul" are generally seen as milder than their English equivalents. The level of offense often depends on context and the specific illness referenced.

What are some safe Dutch swear word alternatives?

Dutch offers many creative, inoffensive alternatives for cursing:

• "Potjandosie" (mild version of godverdomme)
• "Helaas pindakaas" (too bad, peanut butter)
• "Potverdorie" (gosh darn it)
• "Sjongejonge" (expression of frustration)
• "Jeetje" (jeez)

How do Dutch people use curse words in everyday speech?

Dutch people often combine curse words with regular words to form compounds. For example, adding "kut" or "kanker" as a prefix intensifies the meaning. They also frequently use English curse words like "fuck" and "shit" in daily conversation.

What's the difference between Dutch swearing and Dutch insults?

Dutch swearing (vloeken) typically involves exclamations and curse words, while Dutch insults (scheldwoorden) are specifically directed at people. Many Dutch insults creatively combine words, like "mierenneuker" (ant-f*cker, meaning nitpicker) or "pannenkoek" (pancake, meaning fool).

Why do Dutch people swear with diseases?

The tradition of disease-based swearing in Dutch dates back to medieval times when diseases like the plague, cholera, and tuberculosis were deadly threats. This historical connection has persisted in modern Dutch, though some terms (especially cancer-related ones) remain highly taboo.

Can foreigners use Dutch swear words?

While foreigners can use Dutch swear words, it's crucial to understand their cultural weight. Stick to milder expressions unless you're very familiar with Dutch culture and context. Disease-based curses, in particular, should be avoided as they can cause serious offense.