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elfelejteni — meaning in English: to forget

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Guess the translation for to forget
kiváló
szakértelem
vonat
elfelejteni
nevetni
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informal common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'elfelejteni' in everyday conversations when discussing moments that slipped their minds, like forgetting an appointment or a friend's birthday. It's commonly heard in a casual setting among friends or family, as well as in more serious discussions about the consequences of forgetfulness.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'elfelejtesz', which means 'you forget'. While 'elfelejteni' is the infinitive form used in general statements, 'el felejtesz' is often used for direct address. Choosing 'elfelejteni' conveys a more abstract or general sense of forgetting, while the second form is more immediate and personal.
Culture
'Elfelejteni' comes from the root 'felej', which is related to the Hungarian word for 'to remember', 'emlékezni'. In Hungarian culture, forgetfulness is often humorously addressed, as it is seen as a common human flaw, leading to light-hearted jokes about old age or busy lifestyles. This word also reflects a broader cultural tendency to acknowledge imperfections in memory as part of the human experience.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'elfelejteni' in Hungarian?
The verb 'elfelejteni' is conjugated based on the subject. For example, 'elfelejtem' means 'I forget', 'elfelejtetted' means 'you forgot', and 'elfelejtette' means 'he/she forgot'.
Q.Are there any idiomatic expressions with 'elfelejteni'?
'Elfelejteni valamit' literally means 'to forget something', and it's often used in expressions like 'elfelejtettem a kulcsot', meaning 'I forgot the keys'. This highlights the casual nature in which it's often used.
Q.Is 'elfelejteni' a regular verb?
'Elfelejteni' is considered a regular verb, following typical conjugation patterns in Hungarian. However, be mindful of the vowel harmony rules when forming different tenses.
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Hungarian Vocabulary