Gerunds and Infinitives in Hungarian

In Hungarian, gerunds and infinitives play a crucial role in expressing various actions, preferences, and obligations. Understanding their distinct uses and practical applications will greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Hungarian.

1. Gerunds (Főnévi igenév)

Gerunds in Hungarian are formed by adding the suffix "-ás/-és" to the verb stem. They are used to express actions as nouns. Here are some practical applications of gerunds:

• Subject: Tanulás fontos a sikeres vizsgához. (Studying is important for a successful exam.)
• Object: Szeretek olvasást. (I love reading.)

1. Infinitives (Infinitív)

Infinitives in Hungarian are formed by adding the suffix "-ni" to the verb stem. They are used to express actions as infinitives or to complement other verbs. Here are some practical applications of infinitives:

• Infinitive complement: Szeretek olvasni. (I love to read.)
• Purpose: Oda mentem, hogy segítsek neki. (I went there to help him.)
• Permission: Lehet fotózni a múzeumban. (Photography is allowed in the museum.)

1. Distinguishing Between Gerunds and Infinitives

While gerunds and infinitives may have similar forms, their usage can differ. Here are some key differences:

• Subject of a sentence: Gerunds (-ás/-és) are typically used as the subject of a sentence, while infinitives (-ni) are used as the object.

  • Gerund: Tanulás fontos a sikeres vizsgához. (Studying is important for a successful exam.)
  • Infinitive: Fontos tanulni a sikeres vizsgához. (It is important to study for a successful exam.)

• Complementation of verbs: Infinitives (-ni) are commonly used to complement other verbs, while gerunds (-ás/-és) are not.

  • Infinitive complement: Szeretek olvasni. (I love to read.)
  • Gerund complement: Incorrect - Szeretek olvasás.

• Purpose or intention: Infinitives (-ni) are used to express purpose or intention, while gerunds (-ás/-és) are not.

  • Purpose: Oda mentem, hogy segítsek neki. (I went there to help him.)
  • Gerund: Incorrect - Oda mentem segítés.

1. Verbs that Require Gerunds or Infinitives

Some verbs in Hungarian require the use of either gerunds or infinitives. Here are some common examples:

• Gerund required: Szeretek olvasni. (I love to read.)
• Infinitive required: Előbb kellett volna tanulni. (I should have studied first.)
• Verb with both gerund and infinitive forms: Kezdtem tanulni az új nyelvet. (I started learning the new language.)

Keep in mind that while some verbs have fixed patterns, others may have different meanings depending on whether they are followed by a gerund or an infinitive. Pay attention to these nuances to express your ideas accurately.

1. Summary

Mastering the use of gerunds and infinitives is essential for effective communication in Hungarian. Remember these key points:

• Gerunds are formed by adding "-ás/-és" to the verb stem and function as nouns.
• Infinitives are formed by adding "-ni" to the verb stem and can be used as infinitives or to complement other verbs.
• Pay attention to the specific verbs that require gerunds or infinitives.
• Understand the different roles gerunds and infinitives play in sentences, such as subjects, objects, and complements.

By practicing these concepts and observing native speakers, you will gradually acquire a natural understanding of when to use gerunds and infinitives in Hungarian. Happy learning!