külön

Külön is a Hungarian word with multiple related uses, primarily functioning as an adverb and a particle. In everyday language it denotes separation, distinction, or contrast, roughly translating as 'separately', 'apart', or 'distinctly'. It can modify verbs or adjectives and is often used in expressions that emphasize division or individuality.

Common derivatives and phrases include külön-külön (individually, separately); különbség (difference); különböző (different); különleges (special); különösen (especially). The compound form külön-külön is widely used to indicate that items are treated one by one, without combining them.

Usage notes: the word can be placed before a noun or with a verb to indicate separation, for example: 'két terméket külön számláznak' (two products are billed separately); 'A feladatokat külön-külön kell elvégezni' (the tasks must be performed separately). It also appears in set phrases such as 'külön-külön' and 'különben' (otherwise).

Etymology and status: 'külön' is a native Hungarian element that has spawned a productive family of words and idioms. While its exact historical origins are not exhaustively documented in concise references, it remains a core part of Hungarian lexis and is widely used across registers from everyday speech to formal writing.