gondolkodva

Gondolkodva is a Hungarian adverbial participle formed from gondolkodni (to think). It denotes that the action in the main clause is performed while thinking, indicating manner or an accompanying action. As a non-finite verb form, gondolkodva does not change for person, number, or tense, and it typically modifies the main verb.

Formation and usage: The suffix -va/-ve attaches to the verb stem under Hungarian vowel harmony, yielding gondolkodva from gondolkodni. It is used to express simultaneity or attitude during the main action. It is common in narrative or reflective prose, but can appear in journalism or formal writing.

Syntax and placement: It functions as an adverbial participle (circumstantial complement). It can appear at the beginning or after the subject; punctuation with a comma is common when the participial phrase is fronted. The form itself is invariable and does not reflect the subject of the main clause.

Examples:

- Gondolkodva hallgatta a tanárt. (Thinking, he listened to the teacher.)

- Gondolkodva lépett be a szobába. (Thinking, he stepped into the room.)

- A tervezés során gondolkodva használta az ötleteket. (During planning, he used the ideas, while thinking.)

Notes: Gondolkodva is distinct from finite verb forms and from other participial constructions; in translation it is usually rendered as “thinking” or “while thinking.” It is primarily a stylistic device in Hungarian, suitable for conveying accompanying mental activity.