What does “Go dutch” mean?
The phrase "Go dutch" means 'Every person pays for their own food/drinks.' When someone suggests to "go dutch", they are proposing that each individual cover their own expenses, typically in a social setting such as a meal or a night out.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Let's go dutch and split the bill.
Example
They decided to go dutch on their first date.
Example
When dining with friends, it's common to go dutch.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Splitting the bill evenly
Let's meet for dinner and go dutch on the bill.
They agreed to go dutch and each pay for their own drinks.
- 2Sharing expenses on a date
On their first date, they decided to go dutch and each pay for their own meal.
When going out with friends, it's common to go dutch and split the cost of the outing.
- 3Equal contribution in a group setting
During the trip, everyone agreed to go dutch and contribute equally to the expenses.
Instead of one person paying for everything, they decided to go dutch and each person paid their fair share.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "go dutch" originated in the United States and is believed to have come from the Dutch practice of splitting bills evenly. It has since become a widely used expression in English-speaking countries.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "go dutch" is typically used within a sentence and is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "go dutch" is not offensive. It is a common slang term used to describe a situation where each person pays for their own food or drinks.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "go dutch" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United States. It is understood by a wide range of age groups and is often used in casual social settings.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "go dutch" originated in the United States and is primarily used in English-speaking countries. While it may be understood in other regions, its usage may vary.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- split the bill
- pay separately
- each pay their own
- go equal
- share the cost
Antonyms
- treat
- pick up the tab
- pay for
- cover the bill
- pay for everyone
