kalmeer
To calm down in Dutch is to say kalmeer.
The verb is used to describe the process of becoming less excited. While kalmeren is a direct translation, rustig worden is a very common way to express the process of becoming calm or quiet in Dutch.
Meaning: To become less excited (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
The infinitive form of the verb is kalmeren. The form kalmeert is the third-person singular present tense of the verb.
When do people say it?
Using Kalmeer! as a standalone command can sound quite harsh or blunt in Dutch, similar to telling someone to 'Calm down!' in English.
Did you know?
- The word kalm is a cognate of the English word 'calm' and the French 'calme'. It entered Dutch through French influence, replacing older Germanic terms for stillness in formal contexts.
- When telling a child to calm down, Dutch parents often use the word sussen, which means to soothe or lull. This implies a rhythmic or singing action to induce calmness rather than a command.
- In the Netherlands, telling a stranger to kalmeer can be perceived as condescending or overly clinical. People are more likely to use the phrase rustig maar to sound comforting and softer.
Examples in context
- Ik wil dat je eerst kalmeert.I need you to calm down first.This sentence shows how to use kalmeer when expressing a need for someone to calm down.Tatoeba #11524335 by megamanenm, translation #7576911 by Hybrid
- Kalmeer je!Calm down!This sentence demonstrates using kalmeer as a direct command.Tatoeba #3778711 by PaulP, translation #1123494 by Scott
- Kalmeer je.Calm down.This sentence demonstrates using kalmeer as a soft command or statement.Tatoeba #5978540 by Raizin, translation #435575 by CK
- Blijf kalm, het komt goed. Laten we de mogelijke oplossingen bespreken.Stay calm, it will be alright. Let's discuss possible solutions.
- Je hebt gelijk, laten we kalm blijven en er rustig over praten.You're right, let's stay calm and talk about it calmly.
Example conversation
Emma is trying to soothe Levi after a stressful phone call.
- EmmaKalmeer, alles komt goed.Calm down, everything will be fine.
- LeviIk kan gewoon niet rustig worden!I just can't get relaxed!
- EmmaHaal diep adem en kalmeer nu.Take a deep breath and calm down now.
- LeviJe hebt gelijk, ik probeer het.You are right, I will try.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
