kérni — meaning in English: to ask

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'kérni' in a variety of situations, from casual conversations with friends when asking for help to more formal settings, such as making requests in a business meeting. For example, one might say, 'Kérlek, kérd meg őt, hogy jöjjön el,' meaning 'Please, ask him to come.'

Synonyms & nuances

'Kérni' is often compared to 'kérdez,' which means 'to question.' While 'kérni' focuses on making a request, 'kérdez' emphasizes inquiry. You would choose 'kérni' when you want to politely ask for something rather than seeking information.

Culture

'Kérni' has roots in the Old Hungarian language, reflecting the importance of politeness in Hungarian culture. The act of asking is often intertwined with social etiquette, making this word essential not only for language learners but also for understanding the nuances of Hungarian relationships.

FAQ

Q.How do you use kérni in a sentence?

'Kérni' is used to express requests. For example, 'Kérlek, kérj egy pohár vizet,' translates to 'Please, ask for a glass of water.' It's commonly used in both spoken and written Hungarian.

Q.Is kérni a polite way to ask?

Yes, 'kérni' is generally considered a polite way to make a request in Hungarian. It conveys respect and is appropriate in both informal and formal contexts.

Q.What are common mistakes when using kérni?

A common mistake is using 'kérni' without context or proper sentence structure. Ensure you include the object of your request, as in 'Kérlek, kérj tőle segítséget,' meaning 'Please, ask him for help.'

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Hungarian Vocabulary