Love is universal, but the ways we express it can be wonderfully unique in every language. In Hungarian, words for love go beyond simple statements, often encapsulating warmth, familiarity, and playfulness, as well as deeper, more solemn emotions. Whether you’re just starting to learn Hungarian or are already familiar with some phrases, understanding these different ways of expressing love will bring you closer to the heart of the language and its culture.
1. Szeretlek – The Classic „I Love You”
In Hungarian, szeretlek is the direct translation of “I love you,” but it carries a more nuanced structure. The verb szeretni means “to love,” and the suffix -lek is used to directly address the person being loved. Unlike English, where “I” and “you” are separate words, szeretlek already includes the speaker and the person loved. The word feels personal and connected, emphasizing the closeness between two people.
Hungarians also have variations that play with this sentiment, such as:
- Nagyon szeretlek – “I love you very much.”
- Szeretlek, mint a sót – “I love you like salt,” a line from an old folktale that emphasizes love as essential, like salt to food.
2. Imádlak – A Stronger, More Passionate Love
Imádlak is a term that expresses a stronger, almost worshipful form of love. It comes from the verb imádni, which means “to adore” or “to worship.” Using imádlak can suggest a deeper level of admiration and passion, often used with a romantic partner. It’s not just about love in the everyday sense; it’s a word that reveals intensity, suggesting the loved one is cherished or even idolized.
For instance, saying nagyon imádlak intensifies this passion even further, translating roughly to “I adore you so much.”
3. Kedvellek – Friendly Affection
In Hungarian, kedvellek can be used to convey a fondness or liking for someone without the intensity of szeretlek. It comes from kedvelni, meaning “to like.” While not as strong as “love,” it’s perfect for friendships, new relationships, or even when you want to express warmth without overwhelming someone. For example:
- Nagyon kedvellek – “I really like you.”
This phrase is also great for expressing the early stages of romantic interest, where “like” feels more appropriate than “love” but still carries a sense of affection.
4. Rajongok érted – An Enthusiastic Kind of Love
Rajongok érted translates loosely to “I am enthusiastic about you” or “I am crazy about you.” Rajongani means “to be a fan” or “to be enthusiastic about something,” making rajongok érted a playful, almost passionate expression of love or admiration. This phrase is versatile and can be used in both romantic and friendly contexts, especially when you want to emphasize how much you enjoy someone’s company.
5. Gyönyörű vagy – Admiring Someone’s Beauty
Sometimes, expressing love involves admiring someone’s beauty or essence. Gyönyörű vagy, meaning “you are beautiful,” is a heartfelt way to compliment someone you care about. Unlike some expressions of beauty in other languages, gyönyörű conveys more than just appearance; it can also suggest that the person has an inner beauty or charm that captivates you.
Variations include:
- Te vagy a legszebb – “You are the most beautiful.”
- Csodálatos vagy – “You are wonderful” (suggesting admiration beyond physical beauty).
6. Édesem, Drágám, Kicsim – Terms of Endearment
Hungarian has many affectionate terms that convey warmth and familiarity, often used between loved ones or even close friends. These endearments add a personal touch and are frequently used instead of names in intimate settings:
- Édesem – “My sweet,” used between partners or close family members.
- Drágám – “My dear” or “my treasure,” which conveys warmth and closeness.
- Kicsim – “My little one,” a term used lovingly for children or partners, similar to “sweetheart” in English.
Each of these terms helps create a unique bond and is a perfect example of how Hungarians use language to express affection playfully and sincerely.
7. Szeretettel gondolok rád – Thinking of You Fondly
When loved ones are apart, Hungarians may say szeretettel gondolok rád, which means “I think of you fondly” or “I think of you with love.” It’s a gentle expression that conveys affection without the intensity of a direct “I love you.” It’s often used in letters, messages, or conversations to let someone know they are on your mind, expressing a deep bond despite the physical distance.
8. Örökké Veled – Forever with You
When talking about commitment or enduring love, örökké veled is a popular phrase, meaning “forever with you.” It’s an expression often found in love letters, wedding vows, or heartfelt confessions, suggesting a lasting connection and commitment. This phrase resonates deeply, especially in long-term relationships, symbolizing loyalty and dedication.
These expressions of love in Hungarian add a new depth to understanding how love is felt, shared, and celebrated in Hungarian culture. Whether expressing love in a romantic relationship, appreciating close friendships, or admiring family, the language offers unique phrases and terms that make every connection feel more personal. For learners, experimenting with these expressions brings you one step closer to mastering not only Hungarian vocabulary but also the nuances of Hungarian affection and warmth.