kinézni

Kinézni is a Hungarian verb meaning to look, to glance, or to observe with the eyes. It is typically used to describe directing one’s gaze toward a person, object, or scene, or looking outward from a place, such as out of a window. The prefix ki- attached to néz (to look) adds a sense of outward direction or completion of the action, and kinézni belongs to the regular conjugation pattern of néz with this prefix.

Etymology and form: kinézni is formed from néz with the directional prefix ki-, producing a nuance of looking outward or taking in something with the eyes. It is used in various tenses and moods just like other Hungarian verbs built on néz. The stem remains kinéz- in most finite forms; the endings follow standard Hungarian verb conjugation.

Usage notes: The primary sense is perceptual—seeing or watching something. It is commonly used with a direct object in the accusative when naming what is being looked at, for example in the sense of looking at a scene or watching something unfold. A typical everyday use is kinézek az ablakon, meaning I look out the window. Another example is kinéztem a tájat, meaning I looked at the landscape. The verb can also appear in more complex constructions with time references, such as past or future forms, by applying standard Hungarian tense endings to the kinéz- stem.

Related terms: néz (to look), megnéz (to take a closer look, to check), nézni (to look, to watch). Kinézni contrasts with simply "megtekinteni," which emphasizes inspection or viewing with purpose.

See also: Hungarian verbs of perception, prefixal verbs with ki-, néz.