Amsterdam
/ˌɑm.stərˈdɑm/neuter
Amsterdam is the Dutch name for the capital of the Netherlands.
Amsterdam is used to refer to the capital city of the Netherlands.
Meaning: capital of the Netherlands (name)
How does it change in a sentence?
Amsterdam is a neuter noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌɑm.stərˈdɑm/. The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
When do people say it?
In addition to the official name, you may hear residents use the informal nicknames Mokum or 020 to refer to the city.
Did you know?
- While many people call it the capital, the official capital of the Netherlands is actually legally designated as being in Amsterdam, even though the government sits in The Hague.
- The nickname Mokum used for Amsterdam is believed to come from the Hebrew word 'Makoam', meaning 'place of refuge'.
- The name Amsterdam literally translates to 'Dam on the Amstel' river.
Examples in context
- Ze noemden het dorp Nieuw-Amsterdam.They called the village New Amsterdam.This sentence shows how to use Amsterdam when naming a place.Tatoeba #1532654 by Globetrotter, translation #305819 by CK
- Amsterdam is beroemd om zijn grachten.Amsterdam is famous for its canals.This sentence shows how to use Amsterdam in a description of its features.Tatoeba #7320576 by MarijnKp, translation #5119487 by Hybrid
- Amsterdam is een fietsvriendelijke stad.Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city.This sentence shows how to use Amsterdam when describing the city's character.Tatoeba #7320577 by MarijnKp, translation #6447502 by Hybrid
- 21 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daan and Emma are planning a weekend trip.
- DaanGaan we naar Amsterdam deze zomer?Are we going to Amsterdam this summer?
- EmmaJa, ik wil graag naar Amsterdam.Yes, I would love to go to Amsterdam.
- DaanZal ik de trein naar Amsterdam boeken?Shall I book the train to Amsterdam?
- EmmaDat is een goed plan, Daan.That is a good plan, Daan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “amsterdam” translations and entries Amsterdam, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Amsterdam, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
