Amsterdam language?

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Tjalz

Wij spreken Nederland (we speak Dutch) but the majority of Dutch have English as their second language.
(And German as their third, French as fourth and many speak Spanish, Turkish or Arabian).
Maybe only elderly people might have some trouble helping you out, but in general you will find yourself not having any problem.
Speak a bit more slowly than you'd normally do, don't just assume people understand 100% of what you say, but in general: no problem.
Amsterdam especially, is (also) the (tourist) capitol of our small country with over a million visitors every year.
Forget your Ducth phrase book, but get yourself to use 3 Ducth words like:
Thank U Dank u (u pronounced like the E in nEw)
Hi=Hallo (the A is like the A in cAr)
Goodafternoon=Goedemiddag (with the typical Dutch GGGGG at the end)
Enjoy my country, and avoid the subject "Bush and Irak"
If your a conservative and like to show this, consider yourself in for some long discussion (but hey, isnt this the case all over the world)?
Enjoy!

Pacito

They speak English very well but their language is Dutch. You'll probably learn some English while you are there.

novacaine

the majority of people in Amsterdam speak Dutch as their primary language. however, english is widely spoken and well understood by many. english is taught in their school. my advice, get one of the travel books for the Dutch language and get familiar with some of the more common words you think you would need. have it on you at all times just in case.

Robert R

They speak dutch but you can get around knowing english... Like most of the world.

Angel B

Most places have atleast someone who speaks english. It's a huge tourist area - especially americans - so to get around, you really wouldn't need to learn the language. However, if you are planning an extended stay or want to respect the culture, then I would suggest learning at least the basic phrases in Dutch.

My husband's favorite thing? The "Pissour" (Pisswah). Can't go to Amsterdam without using one...

Ransomed

If you're planning on living/ working anywhere in Europe (or outside your home country for that matter), you gotta make the effort to learn the language. It's your decision to move; no one's sending you love letters saying they need you over there. With that in mind, for the short run, the Dutch are among the most polite and lingual people in Europe.