geduld — meaning in English: patience

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for patience

geduld

waar

werken

door de bomen het bos niet meer zien

papa

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Dutch for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native Dutch speakers commonly use 'geduld' in various contexts, such as during conversations about life challenges or in discussions about personal growth. For instance, you might hear a parent advising their child to have 'geduld' while waiting for a toy they want, or friends discussing the importance of 'geduld' when working on a long-term project.

Synonyms & nuances

'Geduld' can be compared to 'tolerantie' (tolerance) and 'verwachting' (expectation). While 'tolerantie' focuses on accepting situations or behaviors without irritation, 'geduld' implies a more active waiting or enduring, often reflecting emotional strength in the face of delay.

Culture

'Geduld' comes from the Middle Dutch word 'gedult', which means 'endurance' or 'tolerance'. In Dutch culture, patience is often seen as a virtue, reflecting the country’s pragmatic mindset. The saying 'Geduld is een schone zaak' translates to 'Patience is a beautiful thing,' emphasizing its value in daily life.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 'geduld'?

'Geduld' is pronounced as 'khuh-DULT', with a soft 'kh' sound at the beginning, similar to the Scottish 'loch'.

Q.When should I use 'geduld' in conversation?

'Geduld' is appropriate whenever you're discussing situations that require waiting or tolerance, whether in a casual chat or a more serious discussion about personal development.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'geduld'?

One common mistake is confusing 'geduld' with 'lang wachten', which means 'to wait a long time'. While 'geduld' refers to the ability to endure waiting, 'lang wachten' simply describes the duration of the wait.

Learn dutch with Maspeak →

Dutch Vocabulary