tot ziens
/tɔtˈsins/
The English phrase "see you" is translated into Dutch as tot ziens.
tot ziens is used to say goodbye or see you later.
Meaning: see you later (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of tot (until) and ziens (seeing/a seeing).
Which one should you use?
While tot ziens is a polite and standard way to say goodbye, it is slightly more formal than the casual tot straks (see you later today) or doei (bye).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tot ziens is a standard, polite and formal way to say goodbye. It is suitable for use in professional settings, shops or restaurants.
How do you pronounce it?
/tɔtˈsins/
Did you know?
- Using tot ziens in a very intimate relationship can actually feel distant or cold, as it is too formal for partners or close family members.
- The word ziens in tot ziens is a nominalized verb, turning the act of 'seeing' into a noun that functions as a destination in time.
- While tot ziens is the standard for 'see you', the informal doei is often spoken with a rising intonation and a small wave, making it sound more like a question than a statement.
Examples in context
- Tot ziens met Kerstmis.See you at Christmas.This sentence uses tot ziens to express seeing someone at a specific holiday.Tatoeba #9499603 by Micsmithel, translation #2647103 by CK
- Morgen komt Sinterklaas. Tot ziens!Tomorrow, Sinterklaas is coming. See you!This sentence uses tot ziens as a standard parting remark.Tatoeba #5887331 by PaulP, translation #14030198 by Tom9358
- Tot ziens!See you again.This sentence uses tot ziens as a way to say see you again.Tatoeba #397248 by Dorenda, translation #32635 by CK
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lisa and Levi are leaving a cafe after a coffee date.
- LisaHet was leuk om je te zien.It was nice to see you.
- LeviInsgelijks, Lisa. Tot ziens!Likewise, Lisa. See you!
- LisaTot ziens, Levi!See you, Levi!
- LeviDag!Bye!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tot ziens, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
