Understanding the Superessive Case in Hungarian: A Guide for English Speakers

What is the Superessive Case in Hungarian?

The superessive case in Hungarian is a locative grammatical case used to indicate that something is located on the surface of something else. It answers the question "Where?" specifically referring to being on top of or upon a surface.

How is the Superessive Case Formed?

In Hungarian, the superessive case is typically formed by adding the suffix -n or -on/-en/-ön to the noun, depending on vowel harmony rules. The choice of suffix depends on the vowels in the word to maintain harmony.

For example, the word asztal (table) becomes asztalon to mean "on the table." Similarly, ház (house) becomes házon meaning "on the house."

Vowel Harmony and the Superessive Suffix

Hungarian vowel harmony affects which suffix is used. Here are the general rules:

• Words with back vowels (a, á, o, ó, u, ú) take the suffix -on.
• Words with front unrounded vowels (e, é) take the suffix -en.
• Words with front rounded vowels (ö, ő, ü, ű) take the suffix -ön.

Examples of the Superessive Case in Use

• Könyv az asztalon. (The book is on the table.)
• Macska a házon. (The cat is on the house.)
• Festmény a falon. (The painting is on the wall.)
• Pohár az asztalon. (The glass is on the table.)

Common Questions About the Superessive Case

Is the superessive case used for all 'on' locations?

The superessive case is specifically used for surfaces. For other types of 'on' locations, Hungarian uses different cases or postpositions. For example, to say "on the street," you would use the superessive case, but for "on the bus," a different case is used.

Can the superessive case be used with all nouns?

Most nouns can take the superessive suffix, but some abstract nouns or certain proper nouns may not commonly use it. Context and common usage determine appropriateness.

Tips for English Speakers Learning the Superessive Case

• Focus on the vowel harmony rules to choose the correct suffix.
• Practice with common nouns and everyday objects to get comfortable.
• Remember that the superessive case specifically indicates location on a surface.
• Listen to native speakers and pay attention to how they use locative cases.