A number of English expressions formed with the word Dutch are objectionable because of the unflattering stereotypes they perpetuate. Some of these, such as Dutch uncle (a stern critic) and Dutch courage (courage gained by drinking liquor), seem to be passing from the language unassisted. Others, however, such as in Dutch (in trouble) and go Dutch (to pay one’s own expenses on a date), have retained their currency. Most people today are only vaguely aware of the stereotypes evoked by these phrases, but it is probably best to avoid them.
