képzelni

Képzelni is a Hungarian verb meaning to imagine, to form a mental image, or to suppose something. It can describe the act of picturing something in the mind, as well as considering hypothetical situations or possibilities. The sense can range from everyday visualization to more speculative or creative thinking. The verb is often used with a following clause introduced by mintha or hogy, or in imperative form to prompt someone to imagine.

Etymology and related forms: The word builds on the noun kép, meaning image or picture, with the infinitive suffix -elni. Related nouns include képzelet (imagination), képzelgés (fancy, idle thought), and the past participle képzelt (imagined). A closely related verb, elképzelni, adds the prefix el- and emphasizes conceiving or forming an image of something, often with a sense of completion or anticipation.

Usage: Képzelni is versatile in Hungarian. It can take a direct object when imagining something specific, or it can govern a subordinate clause describing the imagined content. Common constructions include imagining a scenario or outcome: “Képzeld el, hogy nyersz egy milliót” (Imagine that you win a million). It is also used in descriptive or reflective contexts, as in “szeretek képzelődni” or “a szereplő helyzetét elképzelik.” The imperative form, “Képzelj el…,” is used to invite someone to imagine something.

See also: kép, képzelet, képzelődés, képzelt, elképzelni.