Romantiseren

Romantiseren is a Dutch verb meaning to present or describe something in a romanticized, idealized, or nostalgic way, often by emphasizing positive aspects and downplaying negatives. The term is used in journalism, literary criticism, cultural discourse, and everyday language to indicate that a subject has been framed through a lens of romance rather than neutrality or realism.

Etymology and usage notes: Romantiseren derives from the adjective romantiek (romantic) and the common Dutch verb formation -eren, forming a verb that describes the act of imbuing something with romance. It is closely related to the English term to romanticize and to Dutch synonyms such as idealiseren (to idealize) and glamoriseren (to glamorize).

Contexts and implications: Romantiseren can appear in discussions of history, travel, media portrayals, relationships, and everyday life. It can function as a descriptive label or a critical critique, suggesting that a portrayal or memory contains an element of fantasy, nostalgia, or selective emphasis. While it can highlight appealing or inspirational qualities, it may also obscure complexities, risks, or negative aspects.

Criticism and balance: The use of romatiseren is often debated, as excessive romanticization may distort reality, hinder critical judgment, or mislead audiences. Critics advocate for more nuanced representations that acknowledge both positive and negative dimensions.

See also: idealiseren, glamoriseren, hedoneutraalheid.