schatje
The Dutch way to say sweetie is schatje.
schatje is an informal way to say sweetie.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a diminutive of schat, which means treasure. The suffix -tje is used to make the noun sound smaller, cuter or more affectionate, similar to adding -ie or -little in English.
Which one should you use?
While schat is also used as a term of endearment meaning treasure or darling, schatje is more diminutive and often carries a more cute or affectionate tone.
How does it change in a sentence?
The suffix -tje is a diminutive suffix used to create the form schatje.
Did you know?
- The word schat is also used in the phrase schat aan to describe a large amount of something, meaning the word for 'treasure' also functions as a quantifier for abundance.
- The diminutive suffix -tje is so pervasive in Dutch that it can be used to make even non-affectionate nouns sound smaller or less threatening, a concept known as 'verkleinwoord'.
- In a professional setting, calling a colleague schatje would be considered highly inappropriate and could even be flagged as sexual harassment, whereas in English 'sweetie' can sometimes slip through as a misguided attempt at being friendly.
Examples in context
- Hoi schatje, wat ben je mooi vandaag!Hi sweetie, you look beautiful today!
- Ik hou van je, schatje.I love you, sweetie.
- Kom maar hier, schatje.Come here, sweetie.
- Hoe was je dag, schatje?How was your day, sweetie?
Example conversation
Levi and Lisa are relaxing at home in the evening.
- LeviAlles goed met je, schatje?Is everything okay with you, sweetie?
- LisaJa, het gaat prima, Levi.Yes, I am doing fine, Levi.
- LeviDat is fijn om te horen.That is good to hear.
- LisaDank je wel, lieverd.Thank you, darling.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry schatje, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
