People from Groningen are known for being down-to-earth, straightforward and, above all, economical with words. Behind those short statements lies a world of meaning and sometimes humour. Are you visiting the city or the province soon? With these seven expressions, you will understand exactly what is meant (and avoid putting your foot in it).
1. “Moi!”
Meaning: Hello / Good morning / Goodbye.
The undisputed king of Groningen words. The best thing about Moi? You can use it all day long, regardless of the time. It’s a Swiss Army knife in word form: it means ‘hello’, ‘good morning’ and ‘goodbye’ all at the same time.
It is the ultimate expression of efficiency. Why use a whole sentence when one word will suffice?
2. “Kon minder”
Meaning: It was excellent / Very good.
Note: this is the highest compliment you can get in Groningen. If someone from Groningen asks you how the food was and you get the answer ‘could be worse’, then jump for joy. It simply means that it was good. Someone from Groningen will not easily shout ‘great!’, as that is far too exaggerated. Could be worse says exactly enough.
3. “Kop d’r veur hold’n”
Meaning: Keep your chin up / Persevere.
Whether it’s gas extraction, a severe storm or a personal setback, the people of Groningen keep their heads up. It’s the typical phrase to encourage someone when things are going badly.
It is a powerful expression of the down-to-earth attitude that has characterised the province for centuries. It does not mean ignoring problems, but facing them head-on. Don’t give up, but remain determined.
4. Man, oh man, what a mess
This is perhaps the most versatile expression from the North. Whether the basement is flooded, politicians are messing things up or the dog has destroyed the sofa: it’s a boudel.
The word ‘boudel’ literally means ‘mess’ or ‘messiness’, but its meaning is much broader. It is the expression for chaos, hassle or simply amazement at a strange situation. By putting ‘man’ three times in front of it, you indicate that you don’t really have the words for it.
5. Stop whining, get moving!
Don’t whinge, just get on with it!
This is the Groningen variant of ‘actions speak louder than words’. In the north, we don’t like to dawdle or complain about minor setbacks. ‘Soezen’ means to dawdle, whine or procrastinate, while ‘deurbroezen’ means to go full steam ahead.
6. “Were you born in church?”
Meaning: Close the door, it’s draughty!
Did you accidentally leave the door wide open while the bitter January wind blows in? Then you can expect this question. Because church doors used to be (and often still are) always open to everyone, they don’t have door closers or locks to keep out the draught.
7. “Komt goud, mien jong”
Meaning: It’ll be alright, don’t worry.
Perhaps the most beautiful saying of all. It is the ultimate down-to-earth consolation. Whether you’ve made a big mistake, had a tough day or are in the middle of the stress of renovating your home, when someone from Groningen says these words, the tension immediately lifts from your shoulders.
What is your favourite Groningen saying? Or is there a word that you, as an ‘outsider’, really don’t understand? Let us know in the comments!
