beszélni — meaning in English: to speak

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Guess the translation for to speak

beszélni

pihenni

megérteni

félelem

mondani

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use 'beszélni' in various contexts, from casual conversations among friends to formal discussions in business meetings. You might hear it when someone invites another to share their thoughts, or when discussing the importance of communication in a social or educational setting.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'mondani', meaning 'to say', but 'beszélni' emphasizes the act of speaking or conversing, while 'mondani' focuses more on the transmission of information. Use 'beszélni' when you want to highlight interaction and dialogue.

Culture

'Beszélni' comes from the Old Hungarian word 'beszél', which has roots in the Proto-Slavic term for speaking. In Hungarian culture, the act of speaking is highly valued, often associated with storytelling and sharing personal experiences, reflecting the community-oriented nature of Hungarian society.

FAQ

Q.How do you conjugate 'beszélni' in the present tense?

In the present tense, 'beszélni' conjugates to 'beszélek' (I speak), 'beszélsz' (you speak), 'beszél' (he/she/it speaks), 'beszélünk' (we speak), 'beszéltek' (you all speak), and 'beszélnek' (they speak).

Q.Is 'beszélni' used in both written and spoken Hungarian?

'Beszélni' is quite versatile and is commonly used in both written and spoken forms of Hungarian. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'beszélni'?

A common mistake is confusing 'beszélni' with 'mondani'. Remember, 'beszélni' is about engaging in conversation, while 'mondani' is used for stating or declaring something.

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Hungarian Vocabulary