How to Use Passive Voice in Hungarian for English Speakers

Understanding Passive Voice in Hungarian

In English, the passive voice is commonly used to emphasize the action or the object receiving the action rather than the subject performing it. Hungarian, however, uses passive voice differently and less frequently. This article will guide English speakers through the unique aspects of passive voice in Hungarian.

What is Passive Voice?

Passive voice is a grammatical construction where the object of an active sentence becomes the subject of the sentence. For example, in English: "The book was read by Anna." Here, the focus is on the book, not Anna.

Passive Voice in English vs. Hungarian

While English frequently uses passive constructions, Hungarian often prefers active voice or alternative structures to express similar meanings. Hungarian uses passive voice mainly in formal or written contexts, and it is formed differently than in English.

Forming Passive Voice in Hungarian

Hungarian forms the passive voice by using the suffix -atik/-etik attached to the verb stem. This suffix changes depending on vowel harmony and verb conjugation.

For example, the verb ír (to write) becomes íratik in passive voice, meaning "is written."

Examples of Passive Voice Formation

Here are some examples of verbs in active and passive forms:

• Active: Az ember ír egy levelet. (The person writes a letter.)
• Passive: A levél íratik. (The letter is being written.)
• Active: A tanár magyaráz. (The teacher explains.)
• Passive: A magyarázat hallatik. (The explanation is heard.)

Notes on Usage

The passive voice in Hungarian is often replaced by the use of the third person plural active form or by using reflexive constructions. The -atik/-etik form is more common in formal or literary Hungarian.

Alternatives to Passive Voice in Hungarian

Because passive voice is less common, Hungarian speakers often use other ways to express similar ideas.

• Using the third person plural active form: Az emberek írják a levelet. (People write the letter.)
• Using reflexive constructions: A levél íródik. (The letter is being written.)
• Rephrasing sentences to focus on the object or result.

Common Mistakes English Speakers Make

English speakers often try to directly translate passive voice sentences into Hungarian, which can sound unnatural. Remember that Hungarian prefers active voice or alternative expressions.

Summary

Passive voice in Hungarian is formed with the suffix -atik/-etik but is less commonly used than in English. English speakers should be aware of alternative ways to express passive meanings in Hungarian to sound more natural.