Yes, it is fairly normal in many Dutch workplaces for feedback to be blunt and immediate, even in front of others. Dutch communication culture often values directness over politeness, and criticism is usually aimed at the idea, not at you as a person. That said, interrupting before you finish and offering no explanation is on the ruder end of the spectrum, so your discomfort is understandable.
Why this happens: In the Netherlands, meetings are often seen as a place to test ideas quickly. People may say "that won't work" as a starting point for debate, not as a final verdict. There is often less emphasis on softening feedback with praise or hedging. Silence or vague agreement can even be seen as less honest. Many Dutch colleagues also separate the idea from the person: they may reject your proposal in the meeting and then chat normally with you at lunch.
When it crosses a line: Directness is not a license to be dismissive. Interrupting, giving no reasoning, and moving on without letting you respond is poor meeting behavior by most Dutch standards too. If it happens repeatedly, or if it feels personal or hostile, that is a workplace conduct issue, not a cultural quirk you must simply accept.
Practical next steps:
Ask for the reasoning. In the moment or afterward, say calmly: "Can you explain why it wouldn't work? I'd like to understand." This fits Dutch meeting culture and often turns a blunt rejection into a useful discussion.
Separate tone from content. Ask yourself whether the idea had a real flaw. If yes, use it. If no, you can still respond with substance rather than hurt feelings.
Check the pattern. If this colleague interrupts everyone, it is likely their style. If they only do it to you, or if others seem uncomfortable, it may be a personal or team issue.
Speak to your manager privately. Frame it as wanting to contribute effectively: "I noticed ideas get cut off quickly. How can I best bring proposals in this team?" A good manager will either explain the norm or address the behavior.
Adjust gradually. You do not need to become blunt yourself. You can prepare a one-sentence summary of your idea first, invite critique early, and ask "what would need to be true for this to work?" That often gets a more constructive response.
Finally, remember that adapting to Dutch directness is a skill, and resources like Dutch Fluency can help you interpret tone and workplace language. But cultural adaptation does not mean tolerating disrespect. If the behavior is repeated and targeted, document it and use your company's formal channels.