Elkerülje

Elkerülje is a Hungarian verb form derived from elkerülni, meaning to avoid or to circumvent. It is used to express a polite instruction or request to avoid something, commonly appearing in formal or official language. The form is typically used in subordinate clauses or sentences prompted by polite phrases such as “Kérem, hogy” or “Kérjük, hogy,” and translates roughly to “please avoid” in English. In this usage, elkerülje functions as a polite directive concerning the actions of the addressed person.

In practical terms, elkerülje appears in safety notices, medical guidelines, and formal communications where a respectful tone is required. It is often found in sentences that advise avoiding certain behaviors or situations. For example: “Kérem, hogy elkerülje a dohányzást a kijelölt területeken,” meaning “Please avoid smoking in the designated areas.” Another example is: “Az egészség érdekében elkerülje a túlzott alkoholfogyasztást,” meaning “For your health, avoid excessive alcohol consumption.” A third example is a brief directive such as “Elkerülje a veszélyes helyzeteket.”

Etymology-wise, elkerülje comes from the prefix el- added to kerülni (to avoid), forming a channel for a courteous instruction rather than a plain imperative. The form is characteristic of Hungarian polite or formal registers and helps distinguish official guidance from casual speech.