In the mid-17th century, the Dutch presence in Sri Lanka left a linguistic legacy that persisted even after British takeover. The use of Dutch in administration and trade influenced local languages and contributed to the multicultural fabric of Sri Lankan society. Understanding this linguistic history is essential for grasping the complexities of colonial interactions in the region.

Dutch influence in Sri Lanka since 1650 contributed to a multilingual poetic landscape. Poets like R. L. Brohier and R. S. S. Perera have blended languages to reflect the island's diverse cultural heritage.