élni — meaning in English: to live

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Guess the translation for to live

van

élni

több

csodás

lényeg

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use 'élni' in everyday conversations, such as discussing their life experiences or future aspirations. For example, while chatting with friends about travel plans, someone might say, 'Élni fogok Berlinben' (I will live in Berlin). It is also common in literary contexts, where authors reflect on the essence of life.

Synonyms & nuances

'Élni' can be compared to 'létezni,' which means 'to exist.' While 'élni' emphasizes the active experience of living—engaging in life, pursuing dreams, and enjoying moments—'létezni' is more about the mere state of being. Use 'élni' when discussing life experiences and vitality.

Culture

'Élni' comes from the Proto-Uralic root 'el', which means 'to live' or 'to be alive.' This word not only represents the physical act of living but also embodies the deeper philosophical notion of existence, as Hungarian culture often emphasizes the quality and richness of life experiences. An interesting fact about 'élni' is that it is often used in proverbs, such as 'Élni és élni hagyni,' which translates to 'Live and let live,' highlighting a cultural value of tolerance.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of the Hungarian word 'élni'?

'Élni' means 'to live' in English. It is used to describe the act of living in a physical, emotional, or philosophical sense, emphasizing the experience of life.

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

In the present tense, 'élni' is conjugated as follows: 'én élek' (I live), 'te élsz' (you live), 'ő él' (he/she/it lives), 'mi élünk' (we live), 'ti éltek' (you all live), 'ők élnek' (they live).

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

One common mistake is confusing 'élni' with its synonyms. Remember that 'élni' conveys an active engagement with life, whereas 'létezni' simply refers to existence. Using them interchangeably can change the nuance of your message.

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Hungarian Vocabulary