meepraten

Meepraten is a Dutch verb meaning to participate in a discussion or conversation and to have a say in what is being said or decided. It is commonly used to describe contributing opinions in meetings, public debates, online forums, and informal conversations. The term emphasizes active participation rather than silent listening.

The word is formed from the prefix mee- meaning “together” and the verb praten meaning “to talk.” It is used as a regular Dutch verb, typically conjugated in the present tense as praat mee (he/she talks along), with the subject influencing the form (ik praat mee, wij praten mee). In past tense, common constructions include praatte mee (he/she talked along) and hebben meegedaan in related expressions dependent on context. In everyday speech, speakers often say “praat mee” or “praat mee in de vergadering,” and in online contexts people say that participants “praten mee” in the discussion.

Usage notes and context: meepra ten carries a neutral to positive connotation, highlighting active engagement and the opportunity to contribute. It can apply to formal settings, such as councils and committees, as well as informal settings like chat groups and social media discussions. Related phrases include zich uitspreken (to express one’s opinion) and meebeslissen (to have a say in decisions). While generally viewed as constructive, the term can carry a critical nuance if someone is accused of not meepraten when they should.

See also: participation in discussions, public speaking, user input.