A Dictionary of Dutchness

ABN

The official form of Dutch is known as Algemeen Beschaafd Nederlands (ABN), literally general civilized Dutch, or standaardnederlands. The written form of ABN is considered the official spelling of the language. It is monitored by the Taalunie, an organisation backed by the Dutch and Belgian governments. Every 10 years or so there are changes to the official spelling – not always for the better – which means buying new dictionaries and school books. Years ago, if you wanted to advance socially in the Netherlands, you had to speak ABN, but regional accents are now more acceptable.