How to Use Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives in Hungarian

Understanding Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives in Hungarian

In Hungarian, demonstrative pronouns and adjectives are used to point out specific people, objects, or ideas, similar to English words like "this," "that," "these," and "those." However, Hungarian has its own unique forms and rules that learners need to understand to use them correctly.

What Are Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives?

Demonstrative pronouns replace a noun and indicate which one is being referred to, for example, "this is mine." Demonstrative adjectives modify a noun directly, such as "this book." In Hungarian, these forms are distinct and have specific endings depending on their grammatical role.

Common Hungarian Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives

Here are the most common Hungarian demonstrative pronouns and adjectives you will encounter:

• Ez – this (singular, near)
• Az – that (singular, far)
• Ezek – these (plural, near)
• Azok – those (plural, far)

Using Demonstrative Pronouns

When used as pronouns, these words stand alone and replace the noun. For example:

• Ez az enyém. (This is mine.)
• Az nem az ő könyve. (That is not his/her book.)
• Ezek nagyon jók. (These are very good.)
• Azok messze vannak. (Those are far away.)

Using Demonstrative Adjectives

When used as adjectives, they directly modify a noun and come before it. For example:

• Ez a könyv érdekes. (This book is interesting.)
• Az autó piros. (That car is red.)
• Ezek a házak újak. (These houses are new.)
• Azok a fák magasak. (Those trees are tall.)

Important Notes on Hungarian Demonstratives

Unlike English, Hungarian demonstratives do not change form based on gender, but they do agree in number (singular/plural). Also, Hungarian often uses the definite article a or az after the demonstrative adjective when modifying a noun.

Practice Examples

Try translating these sentences to practice using demonstrative pronouns and adjectives:

1. This is my house.
2. Those are beautiful flowers.
3. This car is fast.
4. That book is old.

Summary

Hungarian demonstrative pronouns and adjectives are essential for pointing out specific things in conversation. Remember the basic forms ez, az, ezek, and azok, and practice using them both as pronouns and adjectives to become more confident in Hungarian.