alfabet
/ˈɑl.faːˌbɛt/neuter
The English word 'alphabet' can be translated into Dutch as alfabet or ABC.
Meaning: an ordered set of letters used in a language (noun)
Ways to say it
| Dutch | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| alfabet | /ˈɑl.faːˌbɛt/ | neuter |
| ABC | neuter |
Both terms refer to an ordered set of letters used in a language. The abbreviation ABC can be used colloquially to refer to the alphabet or the basic principles of a subject.
Which one should you use?
ABC is an informal abbreviation used to mean 'the ABCs'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both ABC and alfabet are neuter nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. It is pronounced /ˈɑl.faːˌbɛt/.
Did you know?
- The word alfabet is a loanword that traveled from Ancient Greek to Latin and then into Middle Dutch as alphabeet.
- Dutch children often learn the ABC through a specific song that differs in melody and rhythm from the English version.
- The term ABC can be used as a noun to describe a primer or a beginner's textbook in older Dutch literature.
Examples in context
- In het alfabet komt a voor b.'A' comes before 'B' in the alphabet.This example shows how to say that one letter comes before another using alfabet.Tatoeba #3535872 by PaulP, translation #67291 by Lumi_alt
- Kies een letter van het alfabet.Pick a letter of the alphabet.This example shows how to instruct someone to pick a letter from the alfabet.Tatoeba #9817028 by Raizin, translation #9817021 by shekitten
- Het Engels alfabet telt 26 letters.The English alphabet has 26 letters.This example shows how to state the number of letters in a specific alfabet.Tatoeba #882627 by martinod, translation #26340 by CK
- AApple
- HDog
- SChair
- 29 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sophie and Levi are looking at a children's book.
- SophieKijk, dit is het alfabet.Look, this is the alphabet.
- LeviHet alfabet ziet er erg kleurrijk uit.The alphabet looks very colorful.
- SophieKen jij alle letters van het alfabet?Do you know all the letters of the alphabet?
- LeviNee, ik leer het alfabet nog.No, I am still learning the alphabet.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “alphabet” translations and entries alfabet, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries abc, alfabet, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
