üdvözlet
[ˈydvøzlɛt]
üdvözlet is the Hungarian word for "greetings".
üdvözlet is a formal way to say "hello".
Meaning: formal way of saying "hello" (intj)
Which one should you use?
While üdvözlet is a general formal greeting, Jó napot! is the most common way to say "Good day" or "Hello" in a formal setting during daytime hours.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a standard informal greeting with friends and family, use Szia. Among young Hungarians, the borrowed English word Helló is common, while the shortened version Üdv is also used informally. In formal settings, you might also use the phrase Jó napot kívánok (I wish you a good day) or Kellemes napot (Have a pleasant day).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Western Hungary, the greeting Szervusz (meaning "Hello" or "Hi") is more common.
Did you know?
- The root of üdvözlet is related to the word üdv, which means 'salvation' or 'bliss'. To greet someone is, quite literally, to wish them salvation.
- The greeting Szervusz is a contraction of 'szervus', which is a Latinized form of the word 'servus', meaning 'servant'.
- In very formal Hungarian culture, the phrase Jó napot kívánok is often accompanied by a handshake, but only after the higher-ranking person initiates it.
Examples in context
- Üdvözlet!Greetings!This sentence shows how to use üdvözlet as a standalone greeting.Tatoeba #4338203 by mraz, translation #1130106 by cntrational
- Szívelyes üdvözletem!Warm greetings!This sentence demonstrates the use of üdvözlet in the phrase "Warm greetings!"Tatoeba #8387547 by maaster, translation #6005871 by AlanF_US
- Üdvözlet Franciaországból!Greetings from France!This sentence shows how to use üdvözlet to express greetings from a specific location.Tatoeba #3897545 by felvideki, translation #1151808 by Quazel
- Helló JózsiHello Józsi
Example conversation
Zsófia and László meet at a professional conference.
- ZsófiaÜdvözlet, László úr!Greetings, Mr. László!
- LászlóÜdvözlöm, Zsófia asszony!I greet you, Ms. Zsófia!
- ZsófiaHogy érzi magát ma?How are you feeling today?
- LászlóNagyon jól köszönöm.Very well, thank you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry üdvözlet, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries üdvözlet, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
