Holland or the Netherlands: What’s the Difference and How to Speak Correctly

World News
BB.LV
Publiation data: 05.04.2026 10:43

When talking to locals, do not make a political mistake.

The Netherlands or Holland: many people say "Holland" when referring to the entire country. In fact, this is a mistake, and the difference has historical and political significance.

The terms "Holland" and "the Netherlands" are often used as synonyms. However, they are not the same. Holland refers only to two provinces within the state.

The country is officially called the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In Dutch, the form used is Nederland, while in English it is Netherlands. Thus, the plural reflects the historical structure of the state.

If a person is traveling to Amsterdam or The Hague, they are indeed in Holland. However, a trip to Limburg or Friesland does not pertain to Holland.

What is Included in the Kingdom

The state consists of 12 provinces. Only two of them are called Holland.

Provinces of the country

Noord-Holland;

Zuid-Holland;

Zeeland;

Noord-Brabant;

Limburg;

Utrecht;

Gelderland;

Flevoland;

Overijssel;

Drenthe;

Friesland;

Groningen.

North and South Holland form the core of the Randstad agglomeration. This is a densely populated region on the North Sea coast. It is home to Amsterdam and The Hague, where the government of the country meets.

Why the Name "Netherlands" is Related to Geography

The word "Netherlands" literally means "low lands." About a quarter of the country’s territory lies below sea level. Therefore, the state builds dikes and complex flood protection systems.

In terms of population density, the country ranks among the top in the European Union. In 2024, the population exceeded 18 million. Only Malta has a higher density in the EU.

Where the Word "Holland" Came From

The name "Holland" was first recorded in the 9th century in the form Holtland. It referred to the region around Haarlem and meant "wooded land." Later, the term spread to an entire county.

During the existence of the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands, Holland played a leading role. Then Napoleon included the region in the Batavian Republic and later in the Kingdom of Holland. As a result, the name became established for the country in international usage.

In the 19th century, Belgium seceded from the united state. However, the economic influence of North and South Holland remained strong. Therefore, abroad, the entire country gradually began to be referred to as Holland.

Why Since 2020 Only "The Netherlands" is Used

In the tourism industry, the brand Holland was used for a long time. However, in 2020, the authorities decided to promote the unified name The Netherlands. The goal was to draw attention to other regions, not just Amsterdam and the coast.

The initiative Das andere Holland supports the eastern provinces and offers alternative routes. For example, tourists are recommended small towns, nature parks, and border areas.

What the Word Dutch Means

The term Dutch is the English designation for the adjective "Dutch." It describes people, language, or goods from the Netherlands.

Historically, the word originated from the Old Germanic "þiudisk," which meant "popular." In the Middle Ages, this word distinguished local Germanic languages from Latin. Later, in the English language, a division became established: German for Germany, Dutch for the Netherlands.

Consequently, Dutch has no relation to the German language. It is a separate historical development of terms.