kus
/kʏs/masculine
The English word 'kiss' can be translated into Dutch as kus or zoen.
Meaning: a touch with the lips (noun)
Ways to say it
| Dutch | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| kus | /kʏs/ | masculine |
| zoen | /zun/ | masculine |
Both kus and zoen refer to a touch with the lips. For the action of kissing, you can use the verbs kussen or zoenen. When describing the act of two people kissing each other, you use elkaar kussen or elkaar zoenen.
Which one should you use?
While both words mean a kiss, zoen is a common and versatile informal term. You may also encounter the diminutive form kusje, which is a softer and more endearing way to say 'kiss'.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb kussen is the standard way to express the action of kissing. Both kus and zoen are masculine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/kʏs/
When do people say it?
In digital communication, people often use kusjes as an affectionate sign-off.
Did you know?
- The Dutch word zoen originally meant 'reconciliation' or 'atonement' rather than a physical kiss.
- Dutch people often use kusjes in a way that functions more like a friendly 'bye' than a literal request for a kiss.
Examples in context
- Kus je me niet?Aren't you going to kiss me?This sentence is useful for seeing how to use kus in a question.Tatoeba #5776214 by simonbr, translation #4014494 by CK
- Ik wil een kus.I want a kiss.This sentence shows how to express a desire for kus.Tatoeba #7550763 by MarijnKp, translation #5853171 by CK
- Geef me een kus.Give me a kiss.This sentence demonstrates how to request a kus.Tatoeba #7874729 by MarijnKp, translation #1844204 by CK
- Mag ik u een kus geven?May I give you a kiss?
- Ik wil je zoenen.I want to kiss you.
- 94 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daan and Emma are saying goodbye at the door.
- DaanEen kus voor afscheid?A kiss for goodbye?
- EmmaJa, graag!Yes, please!
- DaanDat was een lieve kus.That was a sweet kiss.
- EmmaTot morgen, Daan.Until tomorrow, Daan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “kiss” translations and entries kus, zoen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kus, zoen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
