stoute jongen
The English phrase bad boy translates to Dutch as stoute jongen.
This phrase describes a child who behaves poorly or does not follow the rules. You can use the alternative moeilijke jongen to describe a bad boy in a milder way.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Netherlands, the term boefje is used to describe a naughty or mischievous child in a playful sense. In Flemish, stoute jongen translates to naughty boy and is used to describe a bad boy in a less serious manner.
Did you know?
- While stoute jongen refers to a child, calling an adult stout is often used flirtatiously or ironically in Dutch social settings.
- In a surprising twist of meaning, stout can also mean 'brave' or 'bold' in older Dutch literature and certain formal contexts.
- Dutch culture often uses stoute jongen in the context of Sinterklaas, where children are asked if they have been stout to determine if they get a gift or coal.
Examples in context
- Hij is echt een stoute jongen.He is really a bad boy.
- De stoute jongen luisterde niet naar zijn moeder.The bad boy did not listen to his mother.
- Pas op voor die stoute jongen daar.Watch out for that bad boy there.
Example conversation
Lisa is scolding Noah for drawing on the wall.
- NoahKijk eens wat je gedaan hebt, Noah!Look what you have done, Noah!
- LisaHet was maar een klein tekeningetje.It was just a small drawing.
- NoahJe bent echt een stoute jongen vandaag.You are really a bad boy today.
- LisaSorry mama, ik zal het opruimen.Sorry mom, I will clean it up.
