apróra

Apróra is a Hungarian adverb derived from the adjective apró, meaning small or minute. The form is used to denote a small degree or a brief duration, often in a literary, formal, or slightly emphatic register. In usage, apróra modifies a verb or an action to indicate that it happens to a limited extent or for only a short time, rather than describing a large or lasting effect.

Etymology and form: the word combines apró with the adverbial suffix -ra, a productive combination in Hungarian that yields direction or extent. The sense is closer to “to a small extent” or “for a short while” rather than a precise measurement.

Usage notes: apróra is more likely to appear in written Hungarian, especially in descriptive, narrative, or rhetorical contexts. It can convey nuance beyond more common adverbs such as röviden (briefly) or kis mértékben (to a small degree). In everyday speech, apróbb and other common expressions may be preferred. The exact interpretation of apróra depends on the surrounding context, but the core idea remains a limited scope or brief duration.

Relation to related terms: apró serves as the base meaning “small,” while apróka or aprócska carry diminutive or affectionate tones; apróra shares the core sense but functions specifically as an adverb indicating extent or duration. The suffix -ra appears in various Hungarian adverbs to indicate direction toward a limit or boundary of scope.

See also: apró, aprócska, röviden, kis mértékben, adverbial suffixes in Hungarian.

This entry provides a concise sense of apróra as a Hungarian term signifying a small degree or brief moment, primarily in more formal or literary usage.