Dutchman
/'dʌtʃmən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A native or inhabitant of the Netherlands (Holland): A person who is from the Netherlands or of Dutch nationality. 2. A person of Dutch descent: Someone whose ancestry originates from the Netherlands.
Usage
The term "Dutchman" is a traditional, somewhat dated noun for a man from the Netherlands. It is generally neutral but can be considered slightly old-fashioned or informal in modern contexts. The plural is "Dutchmen." The feminine equivalent is "Dutchwoman."
Examples
- A Dutchman won the speed skating championship.
- In the 17th century, Dutchmen were renowned for their skill in trade and navigation.
- He is a proud Dutchman living abroad.
Advanced Usage
- "I'm a Dutchman...": This is an old, emphatic idiom used to express strong disbelief or to swear that something is not true. The full phrase is typically "I'm a Dutchman if...", meaning "I will be proved wrong if...".
- Example: "If that's true, then I'm a Dutchman!" (Meaning: I strongly believe that is not true.)
- "Flying Dutchman": A famous nautical legend about a ghost ship doomed to sail the oceans forever, often used in literature and opera.
- Example: The story of the Flying Dutchman has inspired many artists.
Variants and Related Words
- Dutch (adj/n): The standard adjective relating to the Netherlands, its people, or its language. Also used collectively for the people ("the Dutch").
- Dutchwoman (n): A female native or inhabitant of the Netherlands.
- Netherlander (n): A more formal, modern term for a person from the Netherlands.
Synonyms
- Netherlander (more formal)
- Hollander (specifically from the region of Holland, though often used interchangeably)
Notes on Meaning
The primary meaning refers to nationality. The idiomatic use ("I'm a Dutchman") is a fixed expression that does not relate to the nationality meaning but is used for emphatic denial. The "Flying Dutchman" is a proper noun referring to the specific legend.
Noun
- a native or inhabitant of Holland