lopen vs draaien
Dutch word comparison
Listen to lopen
Listen to draaien
| lopen | draaien |
|---|---|
LOH-pen verb | /ˈdraːiən/ verb |
| to walk; to move on foot; also used to mean that something is running or progressing | to turn or rotate; by extension, to run or operate (of machines or systems) |
How they differ
Draaien focuses on rotation or mechanical operation and is used as a synonym for lopen only when lopen means 'to run/operate' (e.g., a machine). It is not used for human walking. Lopen covers both walking and broader idiomatic 'running' senses.
When to use each
When to use lopen: Prefer lopen when talking about people walking or when using general idiomatic senses that are not specifically mechanical.
When to use draaien: Prefer draaien when describing machines or devices that rotate or when emphasizing mechanical operation.
Side-by-side examples
- De motor loopt niet.
(The engine isn't running.) - De motor draait niet.
(The engine isn't turning/operating.)
Register & nuance: Draaien is neutral and common in technical or everyday contexts when referring to mechanical rotation or operation; it is not used for walking people.