The language is closely related to English, German and Afrikaans, and shares a common ancestor with them in Proto-Germanic. Dutch has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the Middle Ages when it was spoken by the Germanic tribes that inhabited the Netherlands and Belgium. Over time, the language has undergone various changes and influences, including from neighboring countries such as France, Germany and England, as well as from its colonial past in the Caribbean and Asia.
Modern Dutch is characterized by its distinctive pronunciation, which includes a rolling "r" and a guttural "g" sound. It also has a complex grammar system, with three genders and several cases. Despite its complexity, Dutch is known for its clarity and directness, and it is often used as a lingua franca for international communication, particularly in the fields of business, academia and diplomacy.