Relating to the Netherlands (especially the provinces of North and South Holland) or its inhabitants; originating from the Netherlands. Although 'niederländisch' (Dutch, relating to the Netherlands) is the correct term for the whole country, 'holländisch' (Dutch, Hollandish) is often used synonymously in colloquial speech.
example
Wir essen gerne holländischen Käse zum Frühstück.
We like eating Dutch cheese for breakfast.
Usage tips
Colloquial usage
Although 'niederländisch' (Dutch, relating to the Netherlands) is the correct term for the whole country, in everyday language people very often say 'holländisch' (Dutch, Hollandish). This usage is widespread and is usually understood in informal contexts.
EXAMPLE
Meine Nachbarn machen im Sommer immer Urlaub an der holländischen Küste.
My neighbors always vacation on the Dutch coast in the summer.
Word formation
The adjective 'holländisch' (Dutch, Hollandish) is derived from the name of the region 'Holland' with the ending '-isch' (-ish). You find this pattern in many adjectives that describe origin, e.g. 'italienisch' (Italian), 'spanisch' (Spanish).
EXAMPLE
Die holländische Fußballmannschaft hat eine lange Tradition.
The Dutch football team has a long tradition.
Lowercase spelling
Adjectives derived from geographical names and ending in '-isch' are written in lowercase. This also applies to 'holländisch' (Dutch, Hollandish).
EXAMPLE
Ich mag die typisch holländische Architektur.
I like the typical Dutch architecture.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
holländisch vs niederländisch
Dutch
'niederländisch' and 'holländisch' are often used similarly in everyday language when talking about the Netherlands. However, 'niederländisch' is the precise term for the whole country, its language, and its culture. Strictly speaking, 'holländisch' refers only to Holland, especially North and South Holland. Colloquially, many people still say 'holländisch' when they actually mean 'niederländisch'. This can confuse learners. In official or precise situations, 'niederländisch' is the safe choice. 'holländisch' sounds more everyday or refers more specifically to Holland.
holländisch
Auf dem Markt verkauft ein Händler holländischen Käse.
At the market, a vendor is selling Dutch cheese.
niederländisch
Im Kurs üben wir heute niederländische Aussprache.
In the course, we are practicing Dutch pronunciation today.