Mutatás

Mutatás is a Hungarian noun that denotes the act of pointing out or showing something to someone. It encompasses gestures that direct attention to a location or object and, more generally, the display or presentation of information in a way that makes a point clear.

Origin and form: It comes from the verb mutat, meaning to show or indicate, with the suffix -ás forming an abstract noun. The term thus emphasizes the act of making something noticeable through gesture or display, rather than the thing itself.

Usage and nuance: In everyday Hungarian, mutatás refers to pointing with a finger, hand, or a device to indicate a place or feature. It can also describe presenting data, diagrams, or other material so that a point is understood. In more formal contexts, other terms like bemutatás (presentation) or ábrázolás (depiction) may be preferred, but mutatás highlights the gesture- or indication-based aspect of showing.

Related terms and distinctions: Mutató means a pointer or indicator and is used for devices that signal information. Mutatás is distinct from mutáció (mutation) and from mutatni (to show); they are etymologically related but belong to different semantic domains.

See also: mutató; bemutatás; mutatni.

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