kormány
[ˈkormaːɲ]
The English word 'government' is translated into Hungarian as kormány.
The term is used to describe the body with the power to make and enforce laws.
Meaning: body with the power to make and/or enforce laws (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, kormány means 'helm' or 'steering wheel', implying the act of steering a ship or vehicle.
Which one should you use?
While kormány refers to the specific group of people in power (the cabinet), kormányzat is often used to refer to the broader concept of the government or the administration. Additionally, Központi kormány specifically refers to the central or national government.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word kormány can be used as a base for other forms: kormányzat refers to the administration, and kormányzó is the agent noun meaning a person who governs or a ruler.
Did you know?
- The Hungarian word kormány is a loanword from a South Slavic language and is related to the Serbo-Croatian word krma, meaning 'stern'.
- The term for a government's steering, kormányoz, is the same verb used when someone is 'driving' or 'steering' a car.
- Although it means 'government' today, the word kormány is most commonly encountered by Hungarians in a driving context, referring to a 'steering wheel'.
Examples in context
- Új kormány állt felThey constructed a new government.This sentence is useful for describing the construction of a new government.Tatoeba #12204229 by maaster, translation #703145 by papabear
- Új kormány állt fel.They formed a new government.This sentence is useful for describing the formation of a new government.Tatoeba #10978646 by maaster, translation #1723931 by belgavox
- Ez a kormány korrupt.This government is corrupt.This sentence is useful for expressing an opinion about a government being corrupt.Tatoeba #8614890 by Wydy99, translation #3329434 by Hybrid
- 96 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
László and Zsófia are discussing political news at a cafe.
- LászlóHírek szerint a kormány változik.According to the news, the government is changing.
- ZsófiaEz hatalmas változás lesz.This will be a huge change.
- LászlóSzerinted a kormányt megváltják?Do you think they will replace the government?
- ZsófiaNem tudom, de izgalmas.I don't know, but it's exciting.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “government” translations and entries kormány, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kormány, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
