rust in vrede
/rʏst ɪn ˈvreːdə/word by word
The Dutch phrase for "rest in peace" is rust in vrede.
rust in vrede is used as a blessing or expression of hope.
Meaning: blessing or expression of hope (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation where rust means rest and in vrede means in peace.
Which one should you use?
For a more specific formal construction when referring to a male or female person who has passed away, you can use Moge hij/zij in vrede rusten. Additionally, the English abbreviation R.I.P. is also commonly understood and used in Dutch, especially in written form.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
rust in vrede is a formal phrase. It is typically used in religious contexts, funeral services or formal condolences.
How do you pronounce it?
/rʏst ɪn ˈvreːdə/
Did you know?
- While 'rest in peace' is a standard translation, many Dutch people use the much shorter Rust zacht (Rest softly) in more intimate or poetic contexts.
- The word vrede comes from the Old Dutch fritho and is a relative of the English word 'frith' which means 'peace' or 'safety'.
- In older Dutch traditions, the concept of rust was often associated with the 'last sleep' and the physical stillness of the grave.
Examples in context
- Rust in vrede.Rest in peace.This example shows how to use the phrase rust in vrede.Tatoeba #699915 by LaraCroft, translation #692884 by CM
- Rust in vrede, lieve opa.Rest in peace, dear grandpa.
Example conversation
Emma and Levi are at a funeral service.
- EmmaRust in vrede, mijn dierbare vriend.Rest in peace, my dear friend.
- LeviHet is een groot verlies, Emma.It is a great loss, Emma.
- EmmaIk hoop dat hij rust in vrede vindt.I hope that he finds rest in peace.
- LeviDat hoop ik ook voor hem.I hope that for him too.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rest in peace” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (rust, in, vrede) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries in, rust, vrede, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
