How to Say “My Condolences” in Hungarian

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részvétem
In Hungarian, "my condolences" is expressed as részvétem.
részvétem is the standard and most common way to express sympathy in Hungarian upon hearing of a death.

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

részvétem is a formal and respectful expression that is suitable for a wide range of people, from acquaintances to close family members. For a more sincere tone, you can use Őszinte részvétem (My sincere condolences). If you wish to be even more formal, you might use Először is engedje meg, hogy részvétemet fejezzem ki (First of all, let me express my condolences). For a more personal or informal setting, you can say Nagyon sajnálom a veszteségedet (I am very sorry for your loss).

When do people say it?

When expressing sympathy, you may also use more extended formal phrases such as Nagyon sajnálom a veszteséget (I am very sorry for your loss) or offer well wishes for the grieving person, such as Remélem, hogy megtalálja a nyugalmat és az erőt ebben a nehéz időszakban (I hope you find peace and strength during this difficult time).

Did you know?

  • The root of részvétem is 'rész', meaning 'part' or 'share'. By saying it, you are linguistically stating that you are taking a 'part' of their grief into yourself.
  • In Hungarian culture, when offering condolences, it is customary to avoid overly cheery or bright colors. If you are visiting a grieving family or attending a funeral, stick to subdued tones to match the solemnity of the phrase you are using.
  • In Hungarian etiquette, expressing condolences can be phrased as a formal request for permission to speak. Using the phrase Először is engedje meg, hogy részvétemet fejezzem ki technically asks the bereaved for their consent to offer sympathy.

Examples in context

  • Részvétem!
    My condolences!
    This sentence is useful for expressing condolences.
    Tatoeba #6773257 by bandeirante, translation #629043 by Eldad
  • Szeretnék részvétemet nyilvánítani.
    I would like to express my condolences.

Example conversation

László and Éva are talking after a funeral.

  1. László

    Éva, a szívből jövő részvétem.
    Éva, my heartfelt condolences.
  2. Éva

    Köszönöm szépen, László.
    Thank you very much, László.
  3. László

    Sokat jelentett neki a barátságunk.
    Our friendship meant a lot to him.
  4. Éva

    Nekem is nagyon sokat.
    It meant a lot to me too.

Sources

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Ernest Douglas
Ernest DouglasHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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