laat maar vallen
/laːt maːr ˈvɑlə(n)/word by word
To say 'drop it' in Dutch, you use laat maar vallen.
The phrase laat maar vallen is used when you want to describe the physical act of letting an object fall from your hand to the ground.
Which one should you use?
While laat maar vallen refers to dropping a physical object, other phrases are used for different meanings. Use Laat maar. to mean 'Nevermind', 'Forget it' or 'Let it go'. If you want to tell someone to 'Stop it' or 'Quit it', use Hou op. instead.
How do you pronounce it?
/laːt maːr ˈvɑlə(n)/
Did you know?
- Dutch has a specific word vallen for the act of falling, but when someone trips, they often say ik ben gevallen, which literally means 'I am fallen'.
- The word maar in this phrase acts as a particle that softens the command, making it sound less like a strict order.
- The word maar evolved from an older phrase meaning 'were not', which originally functioned as 'except' or 'however'.
Examples in context
- Geen probleem! Laten we het vergeten.No problem! Let's forget about it.
Example conversation
Lucas is helping Lisa move some boxes.
- LucasMoet ik deze doos nog vasthouden?Should I still hold this box?
- LisaNee, laat maar vallen.No, just drop it.
- LucasIs dat echt goed zo?Is that really okay?
- LisaJa, het is niet kapot.Yes, it is not fragile.
