Vincent Otto
30 Aug 2025
Language and culture: More than just words
Germany and the Netherlands are close trading partners. Nevertheless, business talks, contract negotiations and marketing projects often fail due to linguistic misunderstandings and cultural differences.
If you want to be successful in the Netherlands, you should know that language is more than just a means of communication here – it reflects values, mentality and expectations. This is exactly where a professional German-Dutch translator becomes the key to your business success.
Direct communication in the Netherlands
German business partners often express themselves in detail, sometimes even in a roundabout way. In the Netherlands, on the other hand, the rule is: short, direct and straightforward.
A translation that is too formal or convoluted quickly comes across as unnatural or distant. Conversely, overly direct wording can sound rude to German partners. An experienced translator ensures that the message is conveyed in a stylistically and culturally appropriate manner.
Contracts and technical language: accuracy counts
Intercultural business communication is also evident in contracts. While German texts often focus on comprehensive legal details, Dutch documents often prefer a leaner structure.
An inaccurate contract translation into Dutch can not only lead to misunderstandings, but also have legal consequences. That is why specialist knowledge and linguistic precision are essential in contract translations.
Marketing and advertising: When messages don't get across
Language can be a cultural pitfall, especially in marketing. What sounds serious and convincing in Germany may come across as too stiff or exaggerated in the Netherlands. Even humour and idioms can rarely be translated 1:1.
A German-Dutch marketing translator adapts texts not only linguistically but also culturally – so that your message achieves the desired effect in both markets.
Typical pitfalls at a glance
Forms of politeness: ‘Sie’ vs. ‘jij/je’ – how formal should the form of address be?
Directness: Dutch people address problems clearly, Germans often more indirectly.
Contract structure: Detailed German explanations vs. pragmatic Dutch texts.
Marketing styles: German seriousness vs. Dutch informality.
Idioms: Figurative language can rarely be translated 1:1.
Conclusion: Translation also means understanding culture
Successful business communication in the Netherlands means harmonising language and culture. Ignoring differences risks misunderstandings, missed opportunities or even conflicts.
With my experience as a freelance translator German ↔ Dutch, I can help you convey your messages accurately, comprehensively and in a culturally appropriate manner – for smooth cooperation with Dutch partners.