Difference between revisions of "Language/Hungarian/Grammar/Comparisons-and-superlatives"

From Polyglot Club WIKI
Jump to navigation Jump to search
m (Quick edit)
m (Quick edit)
 
Line 3: Line 3:


{{Hungarian-Page-Top}}
{{Hungarian-Page-Top}}
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Hungarian|Hungarian]]  → [[Language/Hungarian/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Hungarian/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Intermediate Hungarian grammar → Comparisons and superlatives</div>
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Hungarian|Hungarian]]  → [[Language/Hungarian/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Hungarian/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Comparisons and superlatives</div>
 
In our journey through the Hungarian language, we come across a fascinating aspect of grammar: '''comparatives and superlatives'''. Understanding how to express differences and extremes can enhance your conversational skills, allowing you to describe not just objects and people, but also their qualities and attributes more vividly. This lesson will empower you to compare things in a way that feels natural and intuitive, reflecting the richness of the Hungarian language.
 
In this lesson, we will cover the following key areas:


__TOC__
__TOC__


== Introduction ==
=== The Importance of Comparisons and Superlatives ===
 
Comparisons and superlatives are essential in any language as they help us articulate differences and similarities between objects, people, and ideas. In Hungarian, these grammatical forms allow us to express not just a basic quality, but also the degree to which something possesses that quality. For example, if we want to say that one city is larger than another, or that a particular dish is the best among many, we use comparative and superlative forms. This is crucial for effective communication, especially when you want to share opinions or preferences.
 
=== Structure of Comparatives and Superlatives in Hungarian ===
 
Hungarian adjectives can be modified to form comparatives and superlatives. The basic rule is to add specific suffixes to the adjective. Here’s a brief overview:
 
* '''Comparative Form''': In Hungarian, comparatives are typically formed by adding the suffix "-bb" or "-ább" to the base adjective. The choice between the two depends on vowel harmony and the structure of the adjective.


In this lesson, we will delve into the topic of comparisons and superlatives in Hungarian grammar. Understanding how to form and use comparative and superlative forms of adjectives is essential for expressing comparisons and describing the degree of a quality or characteristic. This knowledge will greatly enhance your ability to communicate in Hungarian and express yourself more precisely.
* '''Superlative Form''': Superlatives are formed by adding the prefix "leg-" to the base form of the adjective, followed by the basic adjective form itself.  


Throughout this lesson, we will explore the rules and patterns for creating comparative and superlative forms of adjectives in Hungarian. We will also provide numerous examples to illustrate each point, ensuring a clear and thorough understanding of the topic. Additionally, we will discuss any regional variations in the usage or understanding of comparisons and superlatives, as well as any interesting cultural facts or anecdotes that relate to this topic.
Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics of these forms with specific examples.


To practice what you have learned, we have prepared a series of exercises and practice scenarios. These exercises will allow you to apply your knowledge of comparative and superlative forms in various contexts. Detailed solutions and explanations will be provided to help you further reinforce your understanding.
== Comparatives ==


Let's begin our journey into the world of comparisons and superlatives in Hungarian grammar!
=== Formation of Comparatives ===


== Comparative Forms of Adjectives ==
To form comparatives in Hungarian, we generally follow these patterns:


To form the comparative degree of an adjective in Hungarian, we typically add the suffix "-bb" to the end of the adjective. However, there are a few exceptions and irregular forms that we need to be aware of.
* For one-syllable adjectives, we add "-bb".


Let's take a look at some examples:
* For adjectives with two syllables or more, we often add "-ább".
 
=== Examples of Comparatives ===
 
Here are some examples illustrating how to form comparatives:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| magas (high) || /ˈmɒɡɒʃ/ || high
 
| nagy || nɒɟ || big → nagyobb || bigger
 
|-
|-
| magasabb (higher) || /ˈmɒɡɒʃɒb/ || higher
 
| kicsi || kiʧi || small → kisebb || smaller
 
|-
|-
| hosszú (long) || /ˈhoʃ.uː/ || long
 
| szép || seːp || beautiful → szebb || more beautiful
 
|-
|-
| hosszabb (longer) || /ˈhoʃ.uːɒb/ || longer
 
| gyors || jorʃ || fast → gyorsabb || faster
 
|-
|-
| jó (good) || /joː/ || good
 
| nehéz || nɛheːz || heavy → nehezebb || heavier
 
|-
|-
| jobb (better) || /jobː/ || better
 
| okos || okoʃ || smart → okosabb || smarter
 
|-
|-
| rossz (bad) || /roʃ/ || bad
 
| drága || draːɡɒ || expensive → drágább || more expensive
 
|-
|-
| rosszabb (worse) || /roʃɒb/ || worse
|}


As you can see, the comparative form of the adjective is formed by adding the suffix "-bb" to the adjective. However, note that some adjectives undergo vowel harmony, resulting in a change in the stem vowel. For example, the adjective "magas" (high) becomes "magasabb" (higher) with the addition of the comparative suffix.
| egyszerű || ɛɡjʃɛrɨ || simple → egyszerűbb || simpler


There are also a few irregular comparative forms that do not follow the pattern of adding "-bb" to the adjective. Here are some examples:
|-
 
| színes || siːnɛʃ || colorful → színesebb || more colorful


{| class="wikitable"
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| jó (good) || /joː/ || good
 
|-
| jó || joː || good jobb || better
| jobb (better) || /jobː/ || better
 
|-
| rossz (bad) || /roʃ/ || bad
|-
| rosszabb (worse) || /roʃɒb/ || worse
|-
| kevés (few) || /ˈkɛvɛʃ/ || few
|-
| kevesebb (fewer) || /ˈkɛvɛʃɛb/ || fewer
|}
|}


In these cases, the comparative form is formed by changing the stem vowel of the adjective. For example, the adjective "jó" (good) becomes "jobb" (better), and the adjective "rossz" (bad) becomes "rosszabb" (worse).
=== Using Comparatives in Sentences ===
 
You can use comparatives to make comparisons in sentences. Here are a few examples:


It's important to practice and memorize the comparative forms of adjectives in order to use them correctly in sentences. Let's move on to the superlative forms of adjectives.
1. '''A macska nagyobb, mint a kutya.''' 


== Superlative Forms of Adjectives ==
(The cat is bigger than the dog.)


To form the superlative degree of an adjective in Hungarian, we typically add the suffix "- leg" to the end of the adjective. However, similar to the comparative forms, there are a few exceptions and irregular forms that we need to be aware of.
2. '''Ez a könyv érdekesebb, mint az előző.''' 


Let's take a look at some examples:
(This book is more interesting than the previous one.)
 
3. '''A tavasz szebb, mint a tél.''' 
 
(Spring is more beautiful than winter.)
 
4. '''A kávé drágább, mint a tea.''' 
 
(The coffee is more expensive than the tea.)
 
5. '''A kocsi gyorsabb, mint a bicikli.''' 
 
(The car is faster than the bicycle.)
 
== Superlatives ==
 
=== Formation of Superlatives ===
 
Superlatives are formed by adding the prefix "leg-" to the base adjective. The structure remains consistent regardless of the adjective's length.
 
=== Examples of Superlatives ===
 
Here are some examples of superlatives:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| magas (high) || /ˈmɒɡɒʃ/ || high
 
| legnagyobb || lɛɡnɒɟobb || the biggest
 
|-
|-
| legmagasabb (highest) || /ˈlɛɡmɒɡɒʃɒb/ || highest
 
| legkisebb || lɛɡkiʧɛbb || the smallest
 
|-
|-
| hosszú (long) || /ˈhoʃ.uː/ || long
 
| legszebb || lɛɡsɛbb || the most beautiful
 
|-
|-
| leghosszabb (longest) || /ˈlɛɡhoʃ.uː/ || longest
 
| leggyorsabb || lɛɡjorʃabb || the fastest
 
|-
|-
| jó (good) || /joː/ || good
 
| legnehezebb || lɛɡnɛheːzɛbb || the heaviest
 
|-
|-
| legjobb (best) || /ˈlɛɡjobː/ || best
 
| legokosabb || lɛɡokoʃabb || the smartest
 
|-
|-
| rossz (bad) || /roʃ/ || bad
 
| legdrágább || lɛɡdraːɡaːbb || the most expensive
 
|-
|-
| legrosszabb (worst) || /ˈlɛɡroʃɒb/ || worst
|}


As you can see, the superlative form of the adjective is formed by adding the suffix "-leg" to the adjective. However, similar to the comparative forms, some adjectives undergo vowel harmony, resulting in a change in the stem vowel. For example, the adjective "magas" (high) becomes "legmagasabb" (highest) with the addition of the superlative suffix.
| legegyszerűbb || lɛɡɛɟɛrɨbb || the simplest
 
|-


There are also a few irregular superlative forms that do not follow the pattern of adding "-leg" to the adjective. Here are some examples:
| legszínesebb || lɛɡsiːnɛʃɛbb || the most colorful


{| class="wikitable"
! Hungarian !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| jó (good) || /joː/ || good
 
|-
| legjobb || lɛɡjoːbb || the best
| legjobb (best) || /ˈlɛɡjobː/ || best
 
|-
| rossz (bad) || /roʃ/ || bad
|-
| legrosszabb (worst) || /ˈlɛɡroʃɒb/ || worst
|-
| kevés (few) || /ˈkɛvɛʃ/ || few
|-
| legkevesebb (fewest) || /ˈlɛɡkɛvɛʃɛb/ || fewest
|}
|}


In these cases, the superlative form is formed by changing the stem vowel of the adjective. For example, the adjective "jó" (good) becomes "legjobb" (best), and the adjective "rossz" (bad) becomes "legrosszabb" (worst).
=== Using Superlatives in Sentences ===
 
Superlatives enable us to express the highest degree of a quality. Here are some examples:
 
1. '''Ez a macska a legnagyobb a házban.''' 
 
(This cat is the biggest in the house.)
 
2. '''A könyv a legérdekesebb, amit valaha olvastam.''' 
 
(The book is the most interesting I have ever read.)
 
3. '''Ő a legszebb lány az iskolában.''' 
 
(She is the most beautiful girl in the school.)
 
4. '''Ez a kávé a legdrágább a boltban.''' 
 
(This coffee is the most expensive in the shop.)
 
5. '''A kocsi a leggyorsabb az úton.''' 
 
(The car is the fastest on the road.)
 
== Practice Exercises ==
 
Now that we've covered the theory, it's time for you to practice what you've learned! Below are some exercises designed to reinforce your understanding of comparatives and superlatives in Hungarian.
 
=== Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks ===
 
Complete the sentences with the correct comparative or superlative form of the adjective in parentheses.
 
1. A nap a __________ (fényes) az égen. 
 
2. Ez a film __________ (érdekes) a múlt heti. 
 
3. A kutya __________ (nagy) a macskánál. 
 
4. A tavasz __________ (szép) a nyárnál. 
 
5. Az almák __________ (édes) a körténél. 
 
=== Exercise 2: Match the Adjective with Its Comparative and Superlative ===
 
Match the Hungarian adjective with its comparative and superlative form.
 
1. kicsi
 
2. szép
 
3. gyors
 
4. okos
 
5. drága
 
a. legokosabb 
 
b. legkisebb 
 
c. leggyorsabb 
 
d. legszebb 
 
e. legdrágább 
 
=== Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences ===
 
Rewrite the following sentences using comparatives or superlatives.
 
1. A kutya nagy. A macska még nagyobb. 
 
2. A film jó. A könyv még jobb. 
 
3. A nyár szép. A tavasz még szebb. 
 
=== Exercise 4: Create Your Own Sentences ===
 
Create five sentences using both comparative and superlative forms. Be creative!
 
=== Exercise 5: Translate to Hungarian ===
 
Translate the following sentences into Hungarian using the correct forms.


Again, practicing and memorizing the superlative forms of adjectives is essential for using them correctly in sentences. Now that we have covered the formation of comparative and superlative forms, let's explore some additional aspects of comparisons in Hungarian grammar.
1. My sister is taller than I am.


== Additional Aspects of Comparisons ==
2. This restaurant is the best in the city. 


In addition to forming comparative and superlative adjectives, there are a few other aspects to consider when making comparisons in Hungarian.
3. January is colder than April.


=== Using "mint" for "than" ===
=== Exercise 6: True or False ===


In Hungarian, the word "mint" is used to express "than" in comparisons. It is placed after the comparative form of the adjective to indicate the second element being compared.
Determine if the following statements are true or false.


Let's see some examples:
1. "szebbb" is the comparative form of "szép". 


* A kutya magasabb, mint a macska.
2. "legkisebb" is the superlative form of "kicsi".
(The dog is taller than the cat.)


* Az autó gyorsabb, mint a bicikli.
3. "gyors" is the superlative form of "gyorsabb". 
(The car is faster than the bicycle.)
 
=== Exercise 7: Listening Practice ===
 
Listen to your teacher read the following sentences and write down the comparative or superlative form used.
 
1. A legnagyobb város Budapest. 
 
2. Ez a legszebb nap az évben.
 
=== Exercise 8: Group Activity ===
 
In small groups, discuss your favorite books or movies using comparatives and superlatives. Use sentences like: "This book is more interesting than that one."
 
=== Exercise 9: Fill in the Chart ===
 
Create a chart with the following adjectives, their comparative, and superlative forms.
 
| Hungarian Adjective | Comparative Form | Superlative Form |
 
|---|---|---|
 
| jó | | |
 
| nagy | | |
 
| szép | | |
 
| drága | | |
 
| kicsi | | |
 
=== Exercise 10: Reflection ===
 
Write a short paragraph reflecting on what you learned about comparatives and superlatives in this lesson. How can you apply this knowledge in your daily conversations?
 
== Solutions to Exercises ==
 
Here are the solutions to the exercises for your reference.
 
=== Solutions to Exercise 1 ===
 
1. legfényesebb 
 
2. érdekesebb 
 
3. nagyobb 
 
4. szebb 


* A ház drágább, mint a lakás.
5. édesebb 
(The house is more expensive than the apartment.)


In these examples, "mint" is used to create the comparison between the two elements. The word order in Hungarian is different from English, as the comparative form of the adjective comes before "mint."
=== Solutions to Exercise 2 ===


=== Using "ugyanolyan...mint" for "as...as" ===
1-b, 2-d, 3-c, 4-a, 5-e


To express "as...as" in Hungarian, we use the phrase "ugyanolyan...mint." The adjective is repeated before and after "mint" to indicate equality in the degree of a quality or characteristic.
=== Solutions to Exercise 3 ===


Let's see some examples:
1. A kutya nagyobb, mint a macska. 


* A kutya ugyanolyan magas, mint a macska.
2. A film jobb, mint a könyv.
(The dog is as tall as the cat.)


* Az autó ugyanolyan gyors, mint a bicikli.
3. A nyár szebb, mint a tavasz.
(The car is as fast as the bicycle.)


* A ház ugyanolyan drága, mint a lakás.
=== Solutions to Exercise 4 ===
(The house is as expensive as the apartment.)


In these examples, "ugyanolyan" is used to indicate equality, and "mint" is used to connect the two elements being compared.
(Students' answers will vary.)


Now that we have covered the basic formation and usage of comparative and superlative forms of adjectives, let's move on to the cultural section of this lesson to explore any regional variations or interesting cultural facts related to comparisons in Hungarian.
=== Solutions to Exercise 5 ===


== Regional Variations and Cultural Insights ==
1. A nővérem magasabb, mint én. 


Comparisons and superlatives are an integral part of the Hungarian language, and their usage is fairly consistent across different regions. However, there may be slight variations in colloquial expressions and regional dialects that are worth noting.
2. Ez az étterem a legjobb a városban.


For example, in some regions of Hungary, people may use different words or phrases to express comparisons. These regional variations add color and diversity to the language, reflecting the unique cultural heritage of each area. It can be fascinating to explore these regional differences when learning Hungarian and to appreciate the rich linguistic tapestry of the country.
3. Január hidegebb, mint április.


Additionally, comparisons often play a role in Hungarian proverbs and idiomatic expressions. These expressions provide insights into Hungarian culture, values, and beliefs. Here are a few examples of Hungarian proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to comparisons:
=== Solutions to Exercise 6 ===


* "Jobb félni, mint megijedni." (It's better to be cautious than scared.)
1. True 
* "Olyan, mint a feketeleves." (It's like the black soup - referring to a difficult or unpleasant situation.)
* "Magas labda." (High ball - referring to a good opportunity or advantage.)


These proverbs and expressions not only showcase the creativity and linguistic richness of the Hungarian language but also offer glimpses into the cultural mindset and worldview of the Hungarian people.
2. True 


Now, let's put our knowledge of comparisons and superlatives into practice with some exercises.
3. False 


== Exercises ==
=== Solutions to Exercise 7 ===


1. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate comparative or superlative form of the adjectives in parentheses:
(Teacher's answers will vary.)


a) A kék ruha _______ (szép), mint a piros ruha.
=== Solutions to Exercise 8 ===
b) Ez a film _______ (érdekes), mint a másik film.
c) Az alma _______ (finom), mint a körte.
d) A madár _______ (hangos), mint a cica.
e) A nyár _______ (meleg), mint a tél.


2. Rewrite the following sentences using the "mint" construction to make comparisons:
(Group discussions will vary.)


a) A kutya gyorsabb, mint a ló.
=== Solutions to Exercise 9 ===
b) Az étterem drágább, mint a kávézó.
c) A könyv hosszabb, mint a novella.


3. Translate the following sentences into Hungarian:
| Hungarian Adjective | Comparative Form | Superlative Form |


a) Budapest is bigger than Debrecen.
|---|---|---|
b) The cake is as delicious as the ice cream.
c) My dog is smaller than your dog.


== Solutions ==
| jó | jobb | legjobb |


1. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate comparative or superlative form of the adjectives in parentheses:
| nagy | nagyobb | legnagyobb |


a) A kék ruha szebb, mint a piros ruha. (The blue dress is prettier than the red dress.)
| szép | szebb | legszebb |
b) Ez a film érdekesebb, mint a másik film. (This movie is more interesting than the other movie.)
c) Az alma finomabb, mint a körte. (The apple is tastier than the pear.)
d) A madár hangosabb, mint a cica. (The bird is louder than the cat.)
e) A nyár melegebb, mint a tél. (The summer is hotter than the winter.)


2. Rewrite the following sentences using the "mint" construction to make comparisons:
| drága | drágább | legdrágább |


a) A kutya olyan gyors, mint a ló. (The dog is as fast as the horse.)
| kicsi | kisebb | legkisebb |
b) Az étterem olyan drága, mint a kávézó. (The restaurant is as expensive as the café.)
c) A könyv olyan hosszú, mint a novella. (The book is as long as the novella.)


3. Translate the following sentences into Hungarian:
=== Solutions to Exercise 10 ===


a) Budapest nagyobb, mint Debrecen. (Budapest is bigger than Debrecen.)
(Students' reflections will vary.)
b) A süti olyan finom, mint a fagylalt. (The cake is as delicious as the ice cream.)
c) A kutyám kisebb, mint a kutyád. (My dog is smaller than your dog.)


Well done! You have successfully completed the exercises. Now you are ready to confidently use comparative and superlative forms of adjectives in Hungarian!
As we wrap up this lesson, remember that using comparatives and superlatives will greatly enrich your conversations in Hungarian. With practice and application, you'll find these forms becoming second nature in your speech. Keep exploring, keep practicing, and soon you'll be able to express your thoughts and opinions with clarity and confidence.


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Hungarian Grammar → Intermediate Hungarian grammar → Comparisons and superlatives
 
|keywords=Hungarian grammar, intermediate Hungarian, comparisons, superlatives, Hungarian adjectives, Hungarian language
|title=Hungarian Grammar: Comparisons and Superlatives
|description=In this lesson, you will learn how to form and use comparative and superlative forms of adjectives in Hungarian. We will explore the rules and patterns for creating comparative and superlative forms, as well as any regional variations and cultural insights related to this topic.
 
|keywords=comparatives, superlatives, Hungarian language, grammar, adjectives
 
|description=In this lesson, you will learn how to form and use comparatives and superlatives in Hungarian, with plenty of examples and exercises to practice.
 
}}
}}


{{Hungarian-0-to-A1-Course-TOC}}
{{Template:Hungarian-0-to-A1-Course-TOC}}


[[Category:Course]]
[[Category:Course]]
Line 231: Line 393:
[[Category:0-to-A1-Course]]
[[Category:0-to-A1-Course]]
[[Category:Hungarian-0-to-A1-Course]]
[[Category:Hungarian-0-to-A1-Course]]
<span gpt></span> <span model=gpt-3.5-turbo-16k></span> <span temperature=0.7></span>
<span openai_correct_model></span> <span gpt></span> <span model=gpt-4o-mini></span> <span temperature=0.7></span>
 
 


==Sources==
==Sources==

Latest revision as of 22:50, 31 July 2024


Hungary-Timeline-PolyglotClub.png
HungarianGrammar0 to A1 Course → Comparisons and superlatives

In our journey through the Hungarian language, we come across a fascinating aspect of grammar: comparatives and superlatives. Understanding how to express differences and extremes can enhance your conversational skills, allowing you to describe not just objects and people, but also their qualities and attributes more vividly. This lesson will empower you to compare things in a way that feels natural and intuitive, reflecting the richness of the Hungarian language.

In this lesson, we will cover the following key areas:

The Importance of Comparisons and Superlatives[edit | edit source]

Comparisons and superlatives are essential in any language as they help us articulate differences and similarities between objects, people, and ideas. In Hungarian, these grammatical forms allow us to express not just a basic quality, but also the degree to which something possesses that quality. For example, if we want to say that one city is larger than another, or that a particular dish is the best among many, we use comparative and superlative forms. This is crucial for effective communication, especially when you want to share opinions or preferences.

Structure of Comparatives and Superlatives in Hungarian[edit | edit source]

Hungarian adjectives can be modified to form comparatives and superlatives. The basic rule is to add specific suffixes to the adjective. Here’s a brief overview:

  • Comparative Form: In Hungarian, comparatives are typically formed by adding the suffix "-bb" or "-ább" to the base adjective. The choice between the two depends on vowel harmony and the structure of the adjective.
  • Superlative Form: Superlatives are formed by adding the prefix "leg-" to the base form of the adjective, followed by the basic adjective form itself.

Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics of these forms with specific examples.

Comparatives[edit | edit source]

Formation of Comparatives[edit | edit source]

To form comparatives in Hungarian, we generally follow these patterns:

  • For one-syllable adjectives, we add "-bb".
  • For adjectives with two syllables or more, we often add "-ább".

Examples of Comparatives[edit | edit source]

Here are some examples illustrating how to form comparatives:

Hungarian Pronunciation English
nagy nɒɟ big → nagyobb bigger
kicsi kiʧi small → kisebb smaller
szép seːp beautiful → szebb more beautiful
gyors jorʃ fast → gyorsabb faster
nehéz nɛheːz heavy → nehezebb heavier
okos okoʃ smart → okosabb smarter
drága draːɡɒ expensive → drágább more expensive
egyszerű ɛɡjʃɛrɨ simple → egyszerűbb simpler
színes siːnɛʃ colorful → színesebb more colorful
joː good → jobb better

Using Comparatives in Sentences[edit | edit source]

You can use comparatives to make comparisons in sentences. Here are a few examples:

1. A macska nagyobb, mint a kutya.

(The cat is bigger than the dog.)

2. Ez a könyv érdekesebb, mint az előző.

(This book is more interesting than the previous one.)

3. A tavasz szebb, mint a tél.

(Spring is more beautiful than winter.)

4. A kávé drágább, mint a tea.

(The coffee is more expensive than the tea.)

5. A kocsi gyorsabb, mint a bicikli.

(The car is faster than the bicycle.)

Superlatives[edit | edit source]

Formation of Superlatives[edit | edit source]

Superlatives are formed by adding the prefix "leg-" to the base adjective. The structure remains consistent regardless of the adjective's length.

Examples of Superlatives[edit | edit source]

Here are some examples of superlatives:

Hungarian Pronunciation English
legnagyobb lɛɡnɒɟobb the biggest
legkisebb lɛɡkiʧɛbb the smallest
legszebb lɛɡsɛbb the most beautiful
leggyorsabb lɛɡjorʃabb the fastest
legnehezebb lɛɡnɛheːzɛbb the heaviest
legokosabb lɛɡokoʃabb the smartest
legdrágább lɛɡdraːɡaːbb the most expensive
legegyszerűbb lɛɡɛɟɛrɨbb the simplest
legszínesebb lɛɡsiːnɛʃɛbb the most colorful
legjobb lɛɡjoːbb the best

Using Superlatives in Sentences[edit | edit source]

Superlatives enable us to express the highest degree of a quality. Here are some examples:

1. Ez a macska a legnagyobb a házban.

(This cat is the biggest in the house.)

2. A könyv a legérdekesebb, amit valaha olvastam.

(The book is the most interesting I have ever read.)

3. Ő a legszebb lány az iskolában.

(She is the most beautiful girl in the school.)

4. Ez a kávé a legdrágább a boltban.

(This coffee is the most expensive in the shop.)

5. A kocsi a leggyorsabb az úton.

(The car is the fastest on the road.)

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now that we've covered the theory, it's time for you to practice what you've learned! Below are some exercises designed to reinforce your understanding of comparatives and superlatives in Hungarian.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks[edit | edit source]

Complete the sentences with the correct comparative or superlative form of the adjective in parentheses.

1. A nap a __________ (fényes) az égen.

2. Ez a film __________ (érdekes) a múlt heti.

3. A kutya __________ (nagy) a macskánál.

4. A tavasz __________ (szép) a nyárnál.

5. Az almák __________ (édes) a körténél.

Exercise 2: Match the Adjective with Its Comparative and Superlative[edit | edit source]

Match the Hungarian adjective with its comparative and superlative form.

1. kicsi

2. szép

3. gyors

4. okos

5. drága

a. legokosabb

b. legkisebb

c. leggyorsabb

d. legszebb

e. legdrágább

Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences[edit | edit source]

Rewrite the following sentences using comparatives or superlatives.

1. A kutya nagy. A macska még nagyobb.

2. A film jó. A könyv még jobb.

3. A nyár szép. A tavasz még szebb.

Exercise 4: Create Your Own Sentences[edit | edit source]

Create five sentences using both comparative and superlative forms. Be creative!

Exercise 5: Translate to Hungarian[edit | edit source]

Translate the following sentences into Hungarian using the correct forms.

1. My sister is taller than I am.

2. This restaurant is the best in the city.

3. January is colder than April.

Exercise 6: True or False[edit | edit source]

Determine if the following statements are true or false.

1. "szebbb" is the comparative form of "szép".

2. "legkisebb" is the superlative form of "kicsi".

3. "gyors" is the superlative form of "gyorsabb".

Exercise 7: Listening Practice[edit | edit source]

Listen to your teacher read the following sentences and write down the comparative or superlative form used.

1. A legnagyobb város Budapest.

2. Ez a legszebb nap az évben.

Exercise 8: Group Activity[edit | edit source]

In small groups, discuss your favorite books or movies using comparatives and superlatives. Use sentences like: "This book is more interesting than that one."

Exercise 9: Fill in the Chart[edit | edit source]

Create a chart with the following adjectives, their comparative, and superlative forms.

| Hungarian Adjective | Comparative Form | Superlative Form |

|---|---|---|

| jó | | |

| nagy | | |

| szép | | |

| drága | | |

| kicsi | | |

Exercise 10: Reflection[edit | edit source]

Write a short paragraph reflecting on what you learned about comparatives and superlatives in this lesson. How can you apply this knowledge in your daily conversations?

Solutions to Exercises[edit | edit source]

Here are the solutions to the exercises for your reference.

Solutions to Exercise 1[edit | edit source]

1. legfényesebb

2. érdekesebb

3. nagyobb

4. szebb

5. édesebb

Solutions to Exercise 2[edit | edit source]

1-b, 2-d, 3-c, 4-a, 5-e

Solutions to Exercise 3[edit | edit source]

1. A kutya nagyobb, mint a macska.

2. A film jobb, mint a könyv.

3. A nyár szebb, mint a tavasz.

Solutions to Exercise 4[edit | edit source]

(Students' answers will vary.)

Solutions to Exercise 5[edit | edit source]

1. A nővérem magasabb, mint én.

2. Ez az étterem a legjobb a városban.

3. Január hidegebb, mint április.

Solutions to Exercise 6[edit | edit source]

1. True

2. True

3. False

Solutions to Exercise 7[edit | edit source]

(Teacher's answers will vary.)

Solutions to Exercise 8[edit | edit source]

(Group discussions will vary.)

Solutions to Exercise 9[edit | edit source]

| Hungarian Adjective | Comparative Form | Superlative Form |

|---|---|---|

| jó | jobb | legjobb |

| nagy | nagyobb | legnagyobb |

| szép | szebb | legszebb |

| drága | drágább | legdrágább |

| kicsi | kisebb | legkisebb |

Solutions to Exercise 10[edit | edit source]

(Students' reflections will vary.)

As we wrap up this lesson, remember that using comparatives and superlatives will greatly enrich your conversations in Hungarian. With practice and application, you'll find these forms becoming second nature in your speech. Keep exploring, keep practicing, and soon you'll be able to express your thoughts and opinions with clarity and confidence.

Table of Contents - Hungarian Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Greetings and Introductions


Pronouns and Verb Conjugation


Numbers and Time


Questions and Negation


Family and Relationships


Adjectives and Adverbs


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Location


Travel and Transportation


Hungarian Customs and Traditions


Possessive Pronouns and Plurals


Hobbies and Leisure Activities


Hungarian History and Geography

Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]