béke
[ˈbeːkɛ]
'peace' in Hungarian is béke.
The word béke refers to a state of harmony and the absence of war or conflict. In contexts where you want to describe a broader sense of peace, such as a feeling of calm or tranquility, speakers may also use nyugalom.
Which one should you use?
While béke is the standard term for peace, békesség is specifically used in formal contexts like official events or written correspondence. Additionally, nyugalom is used when the intended meaning of peace leans toward calmness or tranquility.
Did you know?
- The origins of the word béke remain a mystery to linguists, as it does not have a clear, traceable connection to other known Indo-European or Uralic roots.
- Hungarians often use the expression béke legyen to wish for the end of a dispute, even in small family arguments, effectively treating 'peace' as a request for a truce.
- If you want to describe someone as 'peaceful' or 'calm' in temperament, you would use the adjective békés rather than nyugodt, which refers more to a temporary state of quiet.
Examples in context
- Béke kell a világnak.The world needs peace.
Example conversation
Zsófia and László are discussing a conflict in the news.
- ZsófiaSzerinted mikor lesz végre béke?When do you think there will finally be peace?
- LászlóRemélem, hamarosan érkezik a béke.I hope peace arrives soon.
- ZsófiaSzeretnék csak egy kis békét.I just want some peace.
- LászlóÉn is úgy érzem, Zsófia.I feel the same way, Zsófia.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry béke, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries béke, CC BY-SA 4.0.
