kusjes
The Dutch word for "kisses" is kusjes.
kusjes is a plural noun used to describe small, affectionate kisses.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is the diminutive form of kus (kiss), where the suffix -jes implies "little" or "sweet".
Which one should you use?
While kussen is the standard plural for kisses, kusjes is used to denote affection, cuteness or a sense of endearment.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using Kusjes! as a sign-off is an informal way to end a text message, email or letter to friends and family.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of this diminutive is kusje.
Did you know?
- While kusjes refers to sweet kisses, the word kussen can also mean 'pillows' in Dutch. This can lead to funny mental images if you are not careful with your diminutives.
- The word kus is a cognate of the English 'kiss', as both derive from an ancient imitation of the sound made by puckering the lips.
- The tradition of giving kusjes as a greeting is far more common in the southern regions of the Netherlands and in Flanders, Belgium, than in the north.
Examples in context
- Ik heb je lieve kusjes gemist.I missed your sweet kisses.This sentence shows how to express missing someone's sweet kusjes.Tatoeba #10792928 by megamanenm, translation #6376668 by OsoHombre
- Kusjes!Kisses!This sentence demonstrates using kusjes as a brief sign-off.Tatoeba #3609950 by PaulP, translation #3609942 by xLilithx
- Tom keerde naar Mary en gaf haar twee kusjes, een op elke wang.Tom turned towards Mary and gave her two kisses, one on each cheek.This sentence illustrates the use of kusjes when giving two kisses, one on each cheek.Tatoeba #4450443 by Will, translation #2982245 by Hybrid
- Dank je wel voor de cadeautjes! Kusjes!Thank you for the presents! Kisses!
- Ik wil je een zoen geven als dank voor je hulp.I want to give you a kiss as thanks for your help.
- Bedankt voor de lieve woorden! Zoentjes!Thanks for the kind words! Kisses!
Example conversation
Sophie and Lucas are saying goodbye before work.
- SophieIk ga nu weg, liefje.I am leaving now, honey.
- LucasOké, tot vanavond!Okay, see you tonight!
- SophieNog veel kusjes voor jou!Many kisses for you!
- LucasDank je, tot straks!Thank you, see you later!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
