Understanding Definite and Indefinite Articles in Hungarian for English Speakers

What Are Articles in Hungarian?

In Hungarian, articles are small words placed before nouns to indicate whether the noun is specific or general. Like in English, Hungarian uses definite and indefinite articles, but their usage and forms differ.

The Indefinite Article in Hungarian

The indefinite article in Hungarian is "egy". It corresponds to the English "a" or "an" and is used when referring to a non-specific or unknown noun.

For example:

• Egy könyv az asztalon. (A book is on the table.)
• Láttam egy macskát. (I saw a cat.)

Note that "egy" can also mean the number "one" depending on context, but when used as an article, it precedes singular nouns.

The Definite Article in Hungarian

The definite article in Hungarian is "a" or "az". It corresponds to the English "the" and is used when referring to a specific or known noun.

The choice between "a" and "az" depends on the initial sound of the following word:

• Use "a" before words starting with a consonant.
• Use "az" before words starting with a vowel.

Examples:

• A könyv az asztalon van. (The book is on the table.)
• Az alma piros. (The apple is red.)

Key Differences Between Hungarian and English Articles

While English articles are limited to "a/an" and "the", Hungarian articles have specific forms and usage rules:

• Hungarian indefinite article "egy" is always pronounced and written, unlike English where "a" can be reduced in speech.
• The definite article changes form based on the initial sound of the next word (a vs az).
• Hungarian articles are always used with singular nouns; plural nouns do not take an indefinite article.

Examples Comparing English and Hungarian Articles

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Omitting the definite article when the noun is specific.
2. Using "egy" with plural nouns (Hungarian does not use indefinite articles with plurals).
3. Confusing when to use "a" or "az" as the definite article.