hetzelfde
/ɦɛt.ˈzɛlf.də/
The English word 'same' is translated into Dutch as hetzelfde.
hetzelfde is an adjective used to describe something that is not different or is identical. You can use the phrase hetzelfde als to highlight that one thing is the same as another.
Meaning: not different as regards self, identical (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a combination of het (the) and zelfde (same).
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between hetzelfde and dezelfde. While hetzelfde refers to the same thing or quality, dezelfde is used specifically when you are referring to the exact same individual object, such as the same person.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ɦɛt.ˈzɛlf.də/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- Dutch has a specific word gelijk which also translates to 'same' or 'equal', but it is used for appearance or value rather than identity.
- The word zelfde is a derivative of zelf, which is a cognate of the English word 'self', showing a shared Germanic linguistic root.
- In spoken Dutch, the 't' in hetzelfde is often swallowed or omitted entirely in rapid conversation, making it sound like heselfde.
Examples in context
- Dat is niet hetzelfde.That isn't the same.This sentence is useful for expressing that something is not the same using hetzelfde.Tatoeba #5070090 by martinod, translation #5474292 by CK
- Ik vraag je hetzelfde.I ask you the same question.This sentence shows how to use hetzelfde to refer to the same thing being asked.Tatoeba #8365359 by Elsofie, translation #1358560 by Dejo
- Het is altijd hetzelfde.It's the same every time.This sentence illustrates using hetzelfde to describe a repeating situation.Tatoeba #9394522 by MarijnKp, translation #1864527 by Spamster
- Het huis is hetzelfde als vorig jaarThe house is the same as last year
- Hij is net zo slim als zijn broerHe is just as smart as his brother
- Wij hebben dezelfde interesses.We have the same interests.
- 167 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Levi and Emma are ordering drinks at a cafe.
- LeviIk wil een cappuccino.I want a cappuccino.
- EmmaVoor mij hetzelfde, alsjeblieft.The same for me, please.
- LeviWil je er ook een koekje bij?Do you want a cookie with it too?
- EmmaNee, dat is niet hetzelfde als mijn gewoonte.No, that is not the same as my habit.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hetzelfde, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
