Common Hungarian Phrases and Expressions for English Speakers

Essential Greetings and Introductions in Hungarian

When learning Hungarian, starting with basic greetings and introductions is crucial. These phrases will help you make a good first impression and start conversations.

• Hello - Szia (informal) / Jó napot (formal)
• Good morning - Jó reggelt
• Good evening - Jó estét
• Goodbye - Viszlát or Viszontlátásra
• Please - Kérem
• Thank you - Köszönöm
• Yes - Igen
• No - Nem

Common Questions to Use in Everyday Conversations

Asking questions is a great way to engage with native speakers and learn more about the language and culture. Here are some common questions in Hungarian.

• How are you? - Hogy vagy? (informal) / Hogy van? (formal)
• What is your name? - Mi a neved? (informal) / Mi a neve? (formal)
• Where are you from? - Honnan jöttél? (informal) / Honnan jött? (formal)
• Do you speak English? - Beszélsz angolul? (informal) / Beszél angolul? (formal)
• Can you help me? - Tudsz segíteni? (informal) / Tud segíteni? (formal)

Useful Expressions for Daily Life

These expressions are commonly used in everyday situations and will help you navigate daily interactions in Hungary.

• I don't understand - Nem értem
• Excuse me / Sorry - Elnézést
• How much does it cost? - Mennyibe kerül?
• Where is the bathroom? - Hol van a mosdó?
• I would like... - Szeretnék...

Polite Phrases to Show Respect

Hungarian culture values politeness, so using these phrases will help you show respect and be courteous.

• Thank you very much - Nagyon köszönöm
• You're welcome - Szívesen
• Please speak slowly - Kérem, beszéljen lassan
• Could you repeat that? - Megismételné?
• Nice to meet you - Örülök, hogy megismerhetem

Pronunciation Tips for English Speakers Learning Hungarian

Hungarian pronunciation can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you pronounce common phrases correctly:

• The letter "s" is pronounced like English sh in "shoe".
• The letter "sz" is pronounced like English s in "sun".
• The letter "cs" is pronounced like English ch in "chocolate".
• Vowels are generally pure and not diphthongized, so pronounce each vowel clearly.
• Stress is always on the first syllable of a word.