In the Netherlands people love 'gezelligheid' (coziness, a good atmosphere). 'Gezellig' is a word that is difficult to translate into any other language, as it is part of the Dutch culture. It is a feeling of warmth and joy and togetherness.
In this article I'll try to explain this word further with some examples.
'Gezellig een bakkie doen'
The Dutch love coffee and 'gezelligheid'. The coffee is sometimes called a 'bakkie', a cute word for 'cup'. 'Een bakkie doen' is way more than drinking coffee. It is a get-together between friends, colleagues or family members. It is a chance to catch up and have a nice chat. If someone invites you over for coffee and a chat, they might ask you to 'do' a 'bakkie'. It is an informal meeting and the phrase is not used in formal written language.
FYI
With the coffee, cookies or cake will be served. Typical Dutch cookies are 'Jodenkoeken' (literally 'Jew cookies'), 'Kletskoppen' (literally 'Chat heads') or 'Stroopwafels' (literally 'Syrup waffles').
'Gezelligheid' can be found anywhere. In people, things, events, interiors and more. Just take a look at the following examples.
Gezellig
Not gezellig
Gezellig
Not gezellig
Gezellig
Not gezellig
I hope you will have a 'gezellige dag' (nice day)!
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