Ja
everyday
The Flemish word for "yes" is Ja, the same as in the Netherlands. For a stronger answer you can say jawel or jazeker, which means "certainly".
Meaning: affirmative answer (adverb)
Ways to say it
| Dutch | Note |
|---|---|
| Ja | everyday |
| Jawel | emphatic |
| Jazeker | emphatic |
Ja is enough in almost every situation. Jawel is often used to contradict a negative, as in answering "you do not like it?" with jawel.
Which one should you use?
Jazeker means "yes, for sure" and adds enthusiasm. Ja ja can sound doubtful or impatient depending on the tone.
Did you know?
- Dutch ja and English "yes" are among the shortest answers in either language, and Flemish keeps the Dutch word unchanged.
Examples in context
- Jawel, dat klopt.Yes indeed, that is right.
- Jazeker, geen probleem.Certainly, no problem.
Example conversation
A shop assistant, the Verkoopster, asks Emma if she needs a bag in a shop in Ghent.
- VerkoopsterWilt u een zak?Would you like a bag?
- EmmaJa, graag.Yes, please.
- VerkoopsterAlstublieft.Here you are.
