How to Conjugate Definite and Indefinite Verbs in Hungarian

Understanding Definite and Indefinite Verb Conjugation in Hungarian

In Hungarian, verbs are conjugated differently depending on whether the object of the verb is definite or indefinite. This distinction is unique compared to English and is essential for proper communication.

What Does Definite and Indefinite Mean in This Context?

A definite object refers to a specific, known item or person, often translated as "the" in English. An indefinite object refers to a non-specific or general item, similar to "a" or "some" in English.

For example, in English, we say "I see a dog" (indefinite) versus "I see the dog" (definite). Hungarian verbs change their endings based on this distinction.

Indefinite Verb Conjugation

Use the indefinite conjugation when the object is indefinite or when there is no object at all (intransitive verbs). This is the default form for many verbs.

For example, the verb lát (to see) conjugated in the indefinite form for "I see a dog" is látok.

Here is the indefinite conjugation pattern for the present tense of lát:

• én látok (I see)
• te látsz (you see)
• ő lát (he/she/it sees)
• mi látunk (we see)
• ti láttok (you all see)
• ők látnak (they see)

Definite Verb Conjugation

Use the definite conjugation when the object is definite, meaning it is specific and known to both the speaker and listener.

For example, "I see the dog" uses the definite conjugation: látom.

The definite conjugation pattern for lát in the present tense is:

• én látom (I see it)
• te látod (you see it)
• ő látja (he/she/it sees it)
• mi látjuk (we see it)
• ti látjátok (you all see it)
• ők látják (they see it)

How to Decide Which Form to Use

To choose the correct conjugation, ask yourself if the object is specific and known. If yes, use the definite form; if no, use the indefinite form.

If there is no object, use the indefinite conjugation.

Examples to Illustrate the Difference

• Látok egy macskát. (I see a cat.) - indefinite
• Látom a macskát. (I see the cat.) - definite
• Olvasok könyvet. (I am reading a book.) - indefinite
• Olvasom a könyvet. (I am reading the book.) - definite

Common Verbs with Definite and Indefinite Conjugations

Many Hungarian verbs have both definite and indefinite conjugations. Here are some examples:

Tips for English Speakers Learning Hungarian Verb Conjugation

• Focus on identifying whether the object is definite or indefinite.
• Practice with common verbs and their two conjugation forms.
• Remember that verbs without objects always use the indefinite conjugation.
• Listening and reading Hungarian will help you internalize these patterns.