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vermoeden — meaning in English: suspect
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suspect
vermoeden
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samenhang
paradox
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neutral
common
Usage
The word 'vermoeden' is often used in contexts where someone has a sense or feeling about something that may not be confirmed. For instance, in a conversation about a friend's unusual behavior, one might say, 'Ik heb het vermoeden dat er iets aan de hand is,' meaning 'I suspect that something is wrong.' It's commonly used in both casual discussions and more serious contexts like police investigations.
Synonyms & nuances
'Vermoeden' is closely related to 'suspicion' but carries a more personal, intuitive feel compared to 'ondernemen,' which means 'to undertake.' You would use 'vermoeden' when you have a gut feeling about a situation, while 'ondernemen' suggests a more active engagement or decision-making process.
Culture
The word 'vermoeden' has roots in the Middle Dutch 'vermoeden,' which means 'to guess or infer.' This reflects the Dutch cultural inclination toward directness and honesty in communication; expressing suspicion often leads to deeper conversations. Interestingly, the concept of suspicion is so woven into Dutch culture that it often appears in literature and film, often symbolizing deeper societal issues.
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