To go Dutch
Meaning
To go Dutch means to divide the cost of a meal, outing, or other shared expense equally among all participants.
Origin
The 17th century was a period of intense rivalry between England and the Netherlands, particularly in trade and naval power. This competition led to many English idioms using the word 'Dutch' to imply something inferior, contrary, or simply different from English custom. Phrases such as 'Dutch courage' (bravery induced by alcohol) and 'Dutch treat' (where each person pays for themselves) emerged from this era. 'To go Dutch' specifically refers to the custom, observed by the English, of the Dutch being notably thrifty and individualistic in social settings, with everyone paying their own share rather than one person treating the others. What began as a somewhat disparaging cultural observation has since lost its negative connotations and now simply signifies an equitable division of costs.
Examples
- Let's just go Dutch tonight since we all ordered different things and want to keep it simple.
- They decided to go Dutch on their first date to avoid any awkwardness about who should pay the bill.