A man politely saying 'alstublieft' while paying at a supermarket

'Please' in Dutch: Alstublieft and Alsjeblieft

If you've just moved to the Netherlands, you'll often hear the word 'alstublieft' or 'alsjeblieft'. That's the Dutch word for 'please'. But when do you use which form? And where will you hear it?

In this guide, we'll explain the difference between alstublieft (formal/polite) and alsjeblieft (informal). You'll get example sentences you can use right away at the supermarket, at work, or with your neighbors.

Alstublieft or alsjeblieft? The difference

In Dutch, there are two words for 'please': alstublieft and alsjeblieft. The difference is in formality. Use 'alstublieft' with people you don't know well, older people, or in formal situations. Use 'alsjeblieft' with friends, family, and people your own age.

The word 'alstublieft' is actually a combination of 'als het u belieft' (if it pleases you). 'Alsjeblieft' comes from 'als het je belieft'. Both are polite, but 'alstublieft' is extra respectful.

Example sentences with alstublieft and alsjeblieft

A cup of coffee, please. (in a café, to the waiter)
May I have the bill, please? (in a restaurant)
Can you pass me the salt, please? (at home at the table with friends)
Could you open your bag, please? (in the store during a check)
Wait here for a moment, please. (to a child or friend)
Close the window, please. (to a family member)

Where else do you hear 'alstublieft'?

You'll often hear 'alstublieft' when you give or receive something. When the cashier gives you your change, she says 'alstublieft'. When you give something to someone, you can also say 'alstublieft'. It's a standard polite phrase in Dutch shops and offices.

Common mistakes with 'please' in Dutch

Dutch people don't say 'alsjeblieft' to a stranger - that's too informal and can come across as rude. Always use 'alstublieft' in that case.
Sometimes beginners forget 'alstublieft' altogether. A request without 'alstublieft' sounds direct. Always add it to be polite.
Note: 'graag' is also used to ask for something politely, but it's not a translation of 'please'. 'Koffie, graag' is correct, but 'koffie, alsjeblieft' is also fine.

Practice with alstublieft and alsjeblieft in the app

Want to remember this well? Practice the sentences in the Dutch Fluency app. You can practice listening and speaking, so you learn the right tone and pronunciation. Download the app and start practicing today in the 'Speaking' and 'Listening' sections.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between alstublieft and alsjeblieft?

Alstublieft is formal, use it with strangers and older people. Alsjeblieft is informal, use it with friends and family.

Do you also say 'please' in other situations in Dutch?

Yes, in letters and emails you can use 'gelieve' or 'vriendelijk verzoek'. But in spoken language, alstublieft/alsjeblieft is most important.

Can I use 'alstublieft' and 'alsjeblieft' interchangeably?

In spoken language, it's better to respect the difference. If you're unsure, choose 'alstublieft' - that's always polite.

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