jongens
/ˈjɔ.ŋə(n)s/
In Dutch, 'guys' is most commonly translated as jongens.
The word jongens is the most common informal way to address a group of people or to refer to a group of 'guys'. Although it literally means 'boys', it is frequently used to address mixed-gender groups.
What does it mean word for word?
jongens is the plural form of jongen, which literally means 'boy'.
Which one should you use?
While jongens can address a mixed-gender group, if you are addressing a group consisting only of females, it is more common to use meiden (girls). Other informal alternatives for addressing a mixed group include gasten or mannen (men).
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. The IPA is /ˈjɔ.ŋə(n)s/.
Did you know?
- The term gasten, used as a synonym for 'guys', literally translates to 'guests', suggesting that the people being addressed are visitors or company.
- The word jongen is a cognate of the English word 'young', sharing a common Germanic root that describes youth.
- In some professional Dutch environments, a boss might address their entire staff as jongens regardless of gender or rank to create a flatter, more egalitarian atmosphere.
Examples in context
- Wie zijn die jongens?Who are those guys?This sentence is useful for identifying a group of jongens.Tatoeba #8443235 by MarijnKp, translation #2451 by CK
- Dat is klote, jongens!That sucks, guys!This sentence shows how to use jongens when expressing frustration.Tatoeba #8390933 by Elsofie, translation #4964583 by gcaplan
- Jongens, we moeten praten.Guys, we need to talk.This sentence shows how to use jongens when addressing a group to get their attention.Tatoeba #4597913 by Raizin, translation #4597891 by Ricardo14
- Hey jongens, hoe gaat het?Hey guys, how are you?
- Kom op, mannen, laten we gaan.Come on, guys, let's go.
- 21 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Levi and Sophie are arriving at a party with a group of friends.
- LeviHoi jongens, we zijn er!Hi guys, we're here!
- SophieWat leuk dat jullie er zijn.How nice that you're here.
- LeviKijk eens, jongens, wat een mooi huis!Look guys, what a beautiful house!
- SophieKom maar binnen, Levi.Come on inside, Levi.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry jongens, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
