go Dutch

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B2

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Figurative meaning

to share the cost of a meal or outing equally

Why this phrase?

The phrase may come from 17th-century anti-Dutch stereotyping of frugality; today it simply means splitting the bill.

Example

“We always go Dutch on dinner so nobody feels obliged.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

a rip-off Informal · CEFR B1

Something that is far too expensive for what it is.

bang for your buck Informal · CEFR B1

the value or impact you get for the money or effort spent

cost an arm and a leg Informal · CEFR B1

To be extremely expensive.

live it up Informal · CEFR B1

to celebrate or indulge freely, usually by spending more than usual

make ends meet Neutral · CEFR B1

To earn just enough money to cover your basic expenses.

money doesn't grow on trees Informal · CEFR B1

Used to remind someone that money is limited and hard to earn.

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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