Vertrouw

Vertrouw is a Dutch verb meaning “to trust” or “to confide.” It is derived from the noun *vertrouwen* and is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the act of placing confidence in a person, institution, or system, or of sharing private information with someone trusted. The verb is regular in conjugation: present tense – ik vertrouw, jij vertrouwt, hij/zij/het vertrouwt; past tense – vertrouwde; past participle – vertrouwd.

In Dutch linguistic practice, *vertrouw* appears in idiomatic expressions such as “vertrouw op” (to rely on) and “vertrouw me” (trust me). The related noun *vertrouwenspersoon* denotes a designated confidant, often appointed in workplaces or educational institutions to receive reports of misconduct or personal concerns. The concept also underpins corporate and governmental policies concerning data protection and confidentiality, where *vertrouwelijkheid* (confidentiality) is a legal requirement.

Culturally, trust is a central value in Dutch society, reflected in the emphasis on consensus (poldermodel) and transparent governance. The term is frequently featured in public discourse about social cohesion, privacy, and the reliability of institutions. In contemporary media, “vertrouw” is used in headlines addressing topics ranging from consumer confidence in financial markets to the reliability of health information.

Outside the linguistic realm, several Dutch organizations incorporate the word into their names, such as **Vertrouw**, a nonprofit that provides counselling and support services, and *Vertrouwens- en beveiligingsdiensten*, firms specializing in security and risk management. These entities aim to embody the principle of trustworthiness inherent in the term, offering services that safeguard personal and organizational confidence.