Pronunciation: [ɡˌə͡ʊ dˈʌt͡ʃ] (IPA) 
The phrase "go Dutch" means that each person pays for their own expenses when dining out or participating in an activity. It comes from the Dutch custom of splitting a bill equally among diners. The spelling of "Dutch" in this phrase follows the standard English pronunciation of the word. The IPA phonetic transcription for "Dutch" is /dʌtʃ/, which represents the sounds "d" /d/, "uh" /ʌ/, "t" /t/, and "ch" /ʃ/.
The phrase "go Dutch" refers to a social situation in which individuals agree to equally split the cost of a meal, activity, or other shared expenses. This expression has its roots in Dutch culture, which is known for its egalitarian values and emphasis on fairness.
When people "go Dutch," it means that each person pays for their own portion, significantly eliminating any obligation for someone to cover the entire bill. This practice promotes a sense of equality, particularly in a group setting where everyone wants to contribute their fair share. By "going Dutch," individuals also avoid any potential misunderstandings, conflicts, or assumptions about who should pay, preventing uncomfortable situations.
The phrase is not limited to just sharing expenses during dining experiences but can be applied to various scenarios, such as going out for drinks, attending events, or engaging in any activity where costs are involved. Going Dutch can also occur spontaneously or be planned in advance, with individuals openly agreeing to divide expenses equally before participating in an activity.
While the term "going Dutch" originated in Dutch culture, it is now widely recognized and utilized in many English-speaking countries as well as various other cultures as a way to uphold fairness, equality, and a sense of financial independence among individuals partaking in shared activities.
The phrase "go Dutch" refers to the practice of splitting the bill or expenses equally among all participants. It originated in the United States during the late 19th century but has a mixed etymology.
One theory suggests that the term stems from the Dutch reputation for frugality and fairness. Dutch culture has a longstanding tradition of careful financial management and equality, so it is believed that splitting expenses equally became associated with the Dutch.
Another possible origin is related to the Dutch door, which is divided horizontally in such a way that the top and bottom halves can be opened and closed independently. This concept of equal division may have been transferred to the practice of sharing expenses.
Additionally, "Dutch treat" was an earlier phrase used to express splitting the costs, and "going Dutch" may have emerged as a shortened version of this expression.
