keresztbe

Keresztbe is a Hungarian adverb describing orientation or arrangement that is crosswise, across, or transverse to a reference axis. It denotes a position that forms a cross with respect to the main direction of an object, surface, or structure. The word comes from the noun kereszt (cross) with a directional suffix, and it is commonly used to express how something is placed or laid out.

In practical usage, keresztbe appears with verbs of placement or motion. For example, one might say a person crossed their arms: A karját keresztbe tette. Another common construction is to describe crossing legs, such as A lábát keresztbe tette ülés közben. In carpentry or construction, the term can describe crosswise arrangements, such as cross bracing or beams placed keresztezve keresztbe a szerkezetben. The adverb can also appear in phrases that indicate orientation during everyday activities, such as laying objects crosswise on a surface.

Keresztbe also functions in idiomatic expressions. One well-established use is keresztbe tenni valakinek a terveit, meaning to thwart or hinder someone’s plans by presenting an obstacle. In such contexts, the word conveys a figurative sense of obstructing progress rather than a purely physical placement.

Overall, keresztbe is a versatile term in Hungarian, primarily describing crosswise positioning but extended to metaphorical uses where actions are intended to disrupt or oppose another’s course.