False friendEverydayDutch

Elf

Meaning: Actually means 'eleven'. Elf uur = eleven o'clock.

Looks like: Elf (the sprite)

Origin: The numeral, like German elf — the resemblance to the English fairy-tale creature is pure coincidence.

More false friends — Everyday

  • Mening Actually means 'opinion'. Mijn mening = my opinion. The meaning of a word is its betekeni…
  • Puxe Actually means 'pull' — the imperative of puxar. The door sign telling you to push says e…
  • Costume Actually means 'custom' or 'habit'. Como de costume = as usual. An outfit is um traje or…
  • Barn Actually means 'child'. A barn is en lada.
  • Sex Actually means 'six'. Klockan sex = six o'clock.
  • Bord Actually means 'table'. Ett bord för två = a table for two.

More Dutch false friends

  • Brutaal Actually means 'cheeky' or 'impudent'. For brutal, say wreed or bruut.
  • Slagroom Actually means 'whipped cream'.
  • Slim Actually means 'clever' or 'smart'. Hij is slim = He's clever.
  • Stout Actually means 'naughty' or 'mischievous'. Een stoute jongen = a naughty boy.
  • Beer Actually means 'bear'. The drink you order is een bier.
  • Big Actually means 'piglet'. For big, say groot.

Explore another collection: Proverbs

Short sayings of timeless wisdom from more than 50 cultures, each with its meaning and origin.

Browse all proverbs →

Keep exploring

Explore all false friends →