oh mijn God
The English phrase "omg" can be expressed in Dutch as oh mijn God.
oh mijn God is an informal expression. While this is the full phrase, Dutch speakers frequently use the English acronym omg in informal digital communication such as texting or social media.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of the English "oh my God", where mijn means "my" and God means "God".
Which one should you use?
In spoken Dutch, the phrase oh mijn God is often shortened or slightly slurred in casual conversation, sounding similar to 'oh mijn Gôd'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
oh mijn God and omg are both informal. For a common informal interjection to express shock or astonishment, you might also use Jezus!
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Limburg, people say Hemeltjelief! to convey surprise or awe.
When do people say it?
When expressing shock or surprise, a Dutch speaker might use oh mijn God!, the English-style omg in texts or the interjection Jezus!
Did you know?
- The word mijn in oh mijn God is a homonym that can also mean 'mine' as in a mineral mine or an explosive landmine.
Examples in context
- Oh mijn God, wat een prachtige auto!Oh my God, what a beautiful car!
- Oh mijn God, ik ben mijn sleutels vergeten.Oh my God, I forgot my keys.
- Oh mijn God, heb je dat echt gezien?Oh my God, did you really see that?
Example conversation
Sophie and Noah are looking at a beautiful sunset.
- SophieOh mijn God, kijk naar die lucht!Oh my God, look at that sky!
- NoahHet is inderdaad prachtig, Sophie.It is indeed beautiful, Sophie.
- SophieIk heb nog nooit zoiets gezien.I have never seen anything like it.
- NoahDat is een bijzonder moment.That is a special moment.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries God, god, mijn, CC BY-SA 4.0.
