Marcel Levi (61) still learns new Amsterdam slang every week: I had to look up 'doekoe'
Marcel Levi shares his observations on the evolution of Amsterdam slang and the necessity of clear, patient-centered communication in medicine. He reflects on how the city's linguistic diversity continues to shape modern youth culture, while stressing the importance of authenticity when navigating changing vocabulary.
Marcel Levi, a 61-year-old medical professional, reflects on the evolving nature of Amsterdam slang and the importance of clear communication in healthcare. Levi observes that while medical jargon often confuses patients, language in the city continues to thrive through its diverse cultural influences, including Yiddish, Surinamese, and Papiamento. He frequently encounters new youth slang, such as the term 'doekoe,' during his work with younger patients and students, though he believes older generations should avoid adopting these terms to stay authentic to themselves.
Despite his interest in linguistic developments, Levi expresses strong disapproval of the casual use of offensive terms in youth slang. He identifies 'mazzel' as his favorite Amsterdam word because it suggests an element of personal agency and bluff in achieving one's luck. As a participant in the broader cultural discourse surrounding the city's dialect, Levi prepares for the upcoming Groot Amsterdams Dictee, an event organized by Stichting Taalgoed and Het Parool to celebrate the local language.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
