elhanyagolt

Elhanyagolt is a Hungarian adjective meaning neglected, left without proper care or attention, for people, objects, places, or situations. It describes something that has not received the necessary maintenance, protection, or regard, resulting in a deteriorated condition or reduced functionality.

Etymology: The word is formed from the verb elhanyagolni (to neglect) with the suffix -t, turning the verb into an adjective meaning “that has been neglected.” The prefix el- often signals completion or result in Hungarian.

Usage: Elhanyagolt is used attributively before a noun (elhanyagolt ház, elhanyagolt kert, elhanyagolt eszköz) or predicatively (A ház elhanyagolt volt). It can modify physical objects, spaces, or abstract situations, such as elhanyagolt környezet or elhanyagolt társadalmi ellátás, depending on context. The term carries a negative connotation and is common in descriptions of neglect in housing, urban maintenance, care of people or animals, or critiques of organizational responsibility.

Examples: Az elhanyagolt kertben rendetlenek a virágágyások. Az elhanyagolt ház romosodott az évek alatt. A közösség elhanyagoltsága miatt sok lakos aggódik a környezetéért.

Related terms: elhanyagolás (noun; neglect), elhanyagolni (to neglect), hanyag (careless, negligent).