Niederländisch, or Dutch, is a West Germanic language primarily spoken in the Netherlands and Belgium. It is the official language of the Netherlands and one of the official languages of Belgium, where it is known as Flemish. Dutch is also spoken in Suriname and several Caribbean islands. The language has a rich history and is closely related to German and English. It uses the Latin alphabet and has a variety of dialects. Dutch is known for its unique sounds and vocabulary, which can be challenging for learners. It plays a significant role in the culture and identity of the Dutch people.