pas op
/pɑs ɔp/word by word
To say 'watch out' in Dutch, you say pas op.
The phrase pas op is used as an interjection to tell someone to proceed with caution.
Meaning: proceed with caution (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase functions as a single idiomatic unit. It is a separable verb where pas is a form of passen (to fit, match or pass) and op means 'on'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The preposition you use after the phrase depends on what you are watching out for. Use pas op voor when you want to say 'watch out for [something/someone]'. However, if you are warning someone to be careful with a specific object, such as a sharp knife or a fragile vase, you must use pas op met instead of voor.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɑs ɔp/
Did you know?
- In a childcare context, oppassen (the non-separated form of the phrase) means 'to babysit', turning a warning into a caretaking role.
- Dutch speakers use pas op not just for immediate danger, but also as a stern warning or threat, similar to saying 'you better watch it'.
- The word pas is also a building block for the Dutch word paspoort, which is the equivalent of the English 'passport'.
Examples in context
- Pas op voor zakkenrollers.Watch out for pickpockets.This sentence shows how to use the phrase to warn against pickpockets.Tatoeba #10923731 by PaulP, translation #5378111 by Zurich899
- Pas op wanneer je springt!Watch out when you jump!This sentence demonstrates how to use the phrase when jumping.Tatoeba #13329675 by Tom9358, translation #13329680 by Tom9358
- Pas op! Daar zijn de flikken!Watch out! Here comes the fuzz!This sentence shows how to use the phrase as an exclamation to warn about the police.Tatoeba #5426771 by PaulP, translation #6480126 by Micsmithel
- Pas op voor de trap. Hij is erg glad.Watch out for the stairs. They're very slippery.
- Kijk uit voor de hondendrol!Watch out for the dog poop!
- Let op! Er komt een auto aan.Watch out! A car is coming.
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Noah and Emma are walking on a snowy sidewalk.
- NoahPas op, het is glad.Watch out, it is slippery.
- EmmaDank je, Noah.Thank you, Noah.
- NoahLoop voorzichtig, Emma.Walk carefully, Emma.
- EmmaIk doe mijn best.I am doing my best.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pas op, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (pas, op) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries op, pas, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
