veel geluk
/veːl ɣəˈlʏk/word by word
The English phrase "best of luck" is translated into Dutch as veel geluk.
veel geluk is the standard way to wish someone success or good fortune in Dutch.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase veel geluk literally translates to "much luck".
Which one should you use?
While veel geluk implies luck or fortune, the phrase veel succes is often used when wishing someone success in a specific task or performance that depends on their own skill.
How do you pronounce it?
/veːl ɣəˈlʏk/
When do people say it?
In certain contexts, such as when someone is pregnant, veel geluk can be used to express congratulations or well-wishes for the upcoming event.
Did you know?
- While veel geluk is used for general luck, Dutch people often say zet 'm op to encourage someone. This phrase literally means 'put it on' and functions like 'go for it' or 'break a leg'.
- In the Netherlands, wishing someone 'good luck' before a theater performance is often avoided. Instead, they may use a variation of the French 'merde' to avoid jinxing the show.
- If you use veel geluk for someone taking an exam, it might sound like you think they are only succeeding by chance rather than through studying.
Examples in context
- Ik bid ervoor dat je veel geluk zult hebben.I pray that you will have the best of luck.This sentence shows how to use veel geluk in a prayer for someone's fortune.Tatoeba #6077625 by Mandalay, translation #435637 by CC
- Heel veel geluk met je presentatie vandaag!Good luck with your presentation today!
- Veel geluk met je nieuwe baan!Best of luck with your new job!
- Ik wens je veel geluk bij het examen.I wish you best of luck with the exam.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julia is seeing Levi off before he leaves for a big job interview.
- JuliaVeel geluk met je gesprek vandaag, Levi!Best of luck with your interview today, Levi!
- LeviDank je wel, Julia.Thank you, Julia.
- JuliaJe kunt het!You can do it!
- LeviIk hoop het ook.I hope so too.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (veel, geluk) and can differ in connected speech.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
