ismerniük

Ismerniük is a Hungarian non-finite verb form built from the infinitive ismerni (to know) with the third-person plural possessive suffix -ük, producing a so-called possessive infinitive. In standard dictionaries, ismerniük is not treated as a separate lexical entry but is described as a specific inflected non-finite form used in particular grammatical constructions.

Form and function

The form signals that the action of the infinitive is associated with a plural third-person subject (they). It does not function as a standalone finite verb; instead, it appears within subordinate clauses or in combination with auxiliary verbs and modal expressions to express knowledge or necessity by or about multiple subjects. Its use is relatively rare in everyday Hungarian and is more commonly discussed in grammar descriptions or in literary or formal contexts.

Usage notes

Scholarly descriptions of Hungarian phonology and syntax note the existence of possessive infinitives as a developmental or archaising feature in the language. In modern everyday usage, speakers typically rely on the bare infinitive ismerni or rephrase the idea with a finite form and pronouns, rather than employing ismerniük. When it does appear, ismerniük often occurs in indirect discourse or in explanations of rules and norms involving multiple subjects.

See also

Hungarian grammar, infinitive forms, possessive suffixes, non-finite verb forms.