kedvelik

Kedvelik is a Hungarian verb form meaning “they like” or “they enjoy,” and it is the third-person plural present indicative of the verb kedvelni (to like). In Hungarian, mood and tense are expressed through verb endings, and kedvelik explicitly marks both the subject (ők, they) and the present tense.

Etymology and form: kedvelni is built from the root kedv, meaning pleasure or liking, with the verbal suffixes that form the infinitive. The 3rd-person plural present ending is -ik, attaching to the stem kedvel-, yielding kedvelik. The form is used when the subject is plural and the action is occurring in the present.

Usage and grammar: Kedvelik governs a direct object in the accusative to indicate what is liked. Because Hungarian grammar marks person and number on the verb, kedvelik simultaneously conveys “they” and “like.” Examples include: Ők kedvelik ezt a zenét. (They like this music.) A diákok kedvelik az új tanárt. (The students like the new teacher.) Kedvelik is typically used in neutral statements and can appear in both spoken and written Hungarian.

Nuance and related terms: Kedvelni expresses liking or preference and is somewhat lighter in tone than szeretni, which more strongly connotes affection or love. Kedvelik focuses on the fact that a group likes something, rather than expressing deep emotional attachment. The term is common in everyday language, media, and general writing.

See also: kedvelni; szeretni.