succes
/sykˈsɛs/
succes is the Dutch way to say 'success'.
While succes can refer to the abstract concept of success, it is most commonly used as an interjection to wish someone good luck or to say 'good luck' before a challenge.
Which one should you use?
For a more formal context regarding prosperity or continuing progress, you might use Voorspoed. If you want to provide informal encouragement or support, you can say Zet 'm op. For an informal way to wish someone luck based on superstition, use Toi, toi, toi.
How do you pronounce it?
/sykˈsɛs/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly add a second 's' at the end because of the English spelling 'success'. In Dutch, succes ends with a single 's'.
Did you know?
- The Dutch phrase Toi, toi, toi is used to wish someone succes specifically because saying 'good luck' out loud is traditionally thought to actually bring bad luck.
- The Dutch word succes is derived from the Latin successus, which originally comes from sub and cēdere, meaning to 'withdraw' or 'yield'.
- While succes is the standard wish, the related Dutch word voorspoed literally translates to 'fore-speed', suggesting a life that moves forward quickly and prosperously.
Examples in context
- Moge voorspoed altijd onderdeel zijn van je toekomstige ondernemingen.May success always be part of your future endeavors.
- Veel succes met de presentatie van morgen.Good luck with tomorrow's presentation.
- Succes met je examen! Zet 'm op!Good luck with your exam! Go for it!
- Toi, toi, toi met je nieuwe baan.Good luck with your new job.
- Ik wens je veel succes.I wish you much success.
- Veel succes met het examen.Good luck with the exam.
Example conversation
Lisa is about to start a job interview and Levi is encouraging her.
- LeviHeb je alles klaargezet voor je gesprek?Have you prepared everything for your interview?
- LisaJa, ik ben er helemaal klaar voor.Yes, I am completely ready for it.
- LeviHeel veel succes, Lisa!Much success, Lisa!
- LisaDank je wel, Levi.Thank you, Levi.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry succes, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries succes, CC BY-SA 4.0.
