Kezdeni

Kezdeni is a Hungarian verb meaning to begin or to start. It is a native word formed with the infinitive suffix -ni from the root kez-, related to the noun kezdet, meaning beginning. The verb is commonly used to describe the initiation of actions, events, or processes.

Etymology and usage context: Kezdeni belongs to the group of Hungarian verbs built on a basic stem that conveys onset. It is used both transitively, with a direct object (kezdeni valamit), and intransitively with clauses about when something begins (az előadás kezdődik). Prefixes such as el- or meg- can modify its meaning, giving forms like elkezdeni (to start, to commence) or megkezdeni (to begin, to undertake). The word is neutral in tone and widely used in everyday speech as well as formal writing.

Grammar notes: The infinitive kezdeni is complemented by standard Hungarian conjugation patterns. In present tense forms, subject agreement changes the ending (examples: kezdem, kezdesz, kezdi, kezdjük, kezditek, kezdenek). The imperative form commonly appears as Kezdd el! (start it) or Kezdjük el! (let us start). The verb can appear with adverbs of time to denote immediacy, such as most kezdeni or most elkezdeni, depending on the intended nuance.

Examples: A projektet most kezdeni fogom. Az előadás most kezdődik. Kezdd el a feladatot! Elkezdődött a megbeszélés.

See also: elkezdeni, megkezdeni, kezdet (beginning). Kezdni is often contrasted with meg- or el- prefixed forms that add nuance to the act of starting.