Dutch Fluency 
The word 'lekker' and how to use it
The word 'lekker' is one of the most used words in Dutch. You hear it everywhere: with food, weather, a good feeling, and even as a compliment. But did you know that 'lekker' has more meanings than just 'tasty'?
In this guide, you'll learn how to use 'lekker' correctly. We give you example sentences, tips, and common mistakes. So you can use this word confidently in conversations.
What does 'lekker' mean?
'Lekker' literally means 'pleasant to the taste'. But in Dutch, you also use it for other things that are nice. For example, for the weather, a comfortable chair, or a good feeling. It's a positive word that is often used informally.
You can use 'lekker' as an adjective (the soup is lekker) or as an adverb (lekker warm). Sometimes it stands alone as an exclamation: 'Lekker!'
Example sentences with 'lekker'
- This pizza is very lekker.
- What lekker weather today!
- I feel lekker after a good night's sleep.
- She sings very lekker, don't you think?
Other ways to use 'lekker'
Besides food and drink, you can use 'lekker' for all kinds of pleasant experiences. Think of 'lekker in je vel zitten' (feeling good), 'lekker slapen' (sleeping well), or 'lekker warm' (pleasantly warm). You also come across it in expressions like 'lekker bezig zijn' (doing good work) or 'lekker belangrijk' (ironically: not important).
Note: 'lekker' can also be sarcastic. For example, when it rains on your day off: 'Lekker weertje!'
Common mistakes or tips
- Don't use 'lekker' for things that are not pleasant. Don't say: 'This pain is lekker.'
- In formal situations, it's better to use 'smakelijk' or 'aangenaam'. 'Lekker' is informal.
- Watch the pronunciation: the vowel is short, like in 'lak' but with an e. Practice with the app!
How to practice this in Dutch
Want to practice more with words like 'lekker'? In the Dutch Fluency NT2 app, you'll find exercises for vocabulary and sentences. You can listen to examples and make your own sentences. Download the app and start practicing today!
Practice more with the Dutch language →Practice now
- Reading exercises for the civic integration exam
- Listening exercises with everyday conversations
- More articles about living in the Netherlands
Frequently asked questions
Can I use 'lekker' for people too?
Yes, but be careful. 'Lekker' for a person can mean you find someone attractive, but it's informal and sometimes too direct. Use it only in informal situations.
Is 'lekker' the same as 'heerlijk'?
No, 'heerlijk' is stronger and is used more often for food or experiences. 'Lekker' is more general and less intense. For example: 'Deze taart is heerlijk' (very tasty).
How do I say 'lekker' in English?
That depends on the context. For food: tasty or delicious. For weather: nice. For feeling: good or comfortable. 'Lekker' has no fixed translation.
More guides and exam tips
- Inburgeringsexamen spreken oefenen: zo beschrijf je een foto (A2)
- Het inburgeringsexamen: alle onderdelen uitgelegd (A2)
- KNM oefenen: Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (inburgering)
- Gratis oefenen voor het inburgeringsexamen (A2): zo begin je vandaag
- Staatsexamen NT2 of inburgeringsexamen: wat is het verschil?
- Staatsexamen NT2: alle onderdelen uitgelegd (B1 en B2)
- Lekker Meaning in Dutch: What Does 'Lekker' Really Mean?
- Kind Regards in Dutch: How to Sign Off Politely
- Dutch Tiki: what it is and how to use it
- Tikkie Culture: What It Is and How to Use It
- "ik wil graag pinnen" in Dutch: how you actually say it
- What Is a Tikkie in the Netherlands? A Guide for Newcomers