Biztosnak

Biztosnak is a predicative form in Hungarian formed from the adjective biztos (certain, sure). It is created by adding the predicative suffix -nak/-nek to the adjective, with the form matching vowel harmony; for biztos the applicable version is nak, yielding biztosnak. This construction is used to express that something is being regarded or perceived as certain within a clause.

The form functions as a predicative complement, typically occurring in sentences with verbs of appearance, perception, or judgment such as tűnik (to seem) or látszik (to appear). It does not change the lexical meaning of biztos, but marks the adjective as a predicative attribute in that clause. The exact choice between -nak and -nek depends on the preceding stem’s vowel harmony, though for biztos it is -nak.

Usage and examples: A common pattern is Ez biztosnak tűnik. (This seems certain.) A similar construction can appear with other verbs that take a predicative complement, depending on regional variation and stylistic preference. The form is widely used in spoken and written Hungarian to convey assessment, probability, or perceived certainty about a statement, plan, or situation.

Origin and related forms: Biztosnak is formed from the base adjective biztos plus the predicative suffix -nak. It is one of several predicative constructions in Hungarian that allow adjectives to function as complements after certain verbs, distinguishing statements of belief or appearance from straightforward noun phrases.

See also: Hungarian grammar, predicative adjectives, -nak/-nek suffix, tűnik, látszik.