Zoiets

Zoiets is a Dutch demonstrative pronoun meaning "something like that" or "such a thing." It refers to a thing or situation that is not named explicitly, serving as a generic substitute for a noun phrase. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Dutch to indicate approximate similarity rather than exact specification.

Usage and examples. Zoiets can function as the object or subject of a clause. It often appears with verbs of experience or description: "Zoiets heb ik nog nooit meegemaakt" (I have never experienced something like that). It can be combined with other words to express a rough category or comparison, as in "Zoiets als dit" (something like this) or "Zoiets dergelijks" (and such things / something of that kind). It is typically used in informal to neutral contexts and can express surprise, doubt, or approval depending on tone.

Variations and translations. The main translations are "something like that," "such a thing," or "something of that kind." In many sentences it acts as a stand-in for a noun phrase, avoiding repetition. Phrases like "zoiets dergelijks" reinforce the sense of approximate similarity or general category.

Etymology. The term is formed from zo- (such, so) and iets (something), combining a demonstrative with a nominal element to create a compact reference to an unnamed object or situation. It shares roots with related Dutch expressions that convey approximation or generality.

See also. The pair "zoiets als" and "zoiets dergelijks" are common constructions. For translations, see English equivalents "something like that" or "such a thing."