How to Use Possessive Suffixes in Hungarian Nouns for English Speakers

Understanding Possessive Suffixes in Hungarian Nouns

In Hungarian, possession is often expressed by adding suffixes directly to the noun, rather than using separate words like "my" or "your" as in English. These are called possessive suffixes. They indicate who owns or is associated with the noun.

Why Use Possessive Suffixes?

Unlike English, which uses possessive pronouns before nouns (e.g., "my book"), Hungarian attaches the possessive information to the noun itself. This means the noun changes form depending on the possessor.

Basic Possessive Suffixes in Hungarian

The suffix you add depends on the person and number of the possessor. Here are the most common suffixes for singular nouns:

• -m (my)
• -d (your, singular)
• -ja / -je (his/her/its)

For plural possessors, the suffixes are slightly different:

• -nk (our)
• -tok / -tek / -tök (your, plural)
• -juk / -jük (their)

Suffix Variations

The exact form of the suffix can change depending on vowel harmony and the ending of the noun. For example, the third person singular suffix can be -ja or -je depending on the vowels in the noun.

Examples of Possessive Suffixes in Use

Let's look at some examples with the noun "könyv" (book):

• könyv + -m = könyvem (my book)
• könyv + -d = könyved (your book, singular)
• könyv + -ja = könyve (his/her book)

Note that sometimes the suffix causes a vowel change or a linking vowel is added for easier pronunciation.

Possessive Suffixes with Plural Nouns

When the noun is plural, the plural suffix -k is added before the possessive suffix. For example, "könyv" (book) becomes "könyvek" (books). To say "my books," you add the suffix after the plural ending:

• könyv + -ek (plural) = könyvek
• könyvek + -em (my) = könyveim (my books)

Common Patterns and Tips

- The possessive suffix always comes at the end of the noun (after plural endings if present).
- Vowel harmony rules affect the suffix form.
- Sometimes a linking vowel is inserted for easier pronunciation.
- The suffix changes depending on the possessor's person and number.

Summary of Hungarian Possessive Suffixes

1. First person singular: -m (my)
2. Second person singular: -d (your)
3. Third person singular: -ja / -je (his/her/its)
4. First person plural: -nk (our)
5. Second person plural: -tok / -tek / -tök (your)
6. Third person plural: -juk / -jük (their)

Practice Examples

Helpful Tips for English Speakers Learning Hungarian Possessive Suffixes

English speakers may find it unusual to attach possession directly to the noun. Practice by memorizing the suffixes and paying attention to vowel harmony. Listening to native speakers and repeating examples will help internalize the patterns.