méltányos

Méltányos is a Hungarian adjective meaning fair, reasonable, or proportionate. It describes something that is appropriate for the circumstances, particularly when considering costs, rewards, or treatment. The sense combines consideration for others' interests with a sense of proportionality, rather than an absolute rule of justice.

Etymology and related forms: The word derives from the verb méltányolni (to value or regard) and the noun méltányosság (fairness, equity). The related adverb is méltányosan, meaning fairly or reasonably.

Common usages and collocations: méltányos ár (a fair price), méltányos bérezés (fair compensation), méltányos bánásmód (fair treatment), méltányos megállapítás (a reasonable determination). In social and political discourse, méltányosság is contrasted with strict justice to emphasize proportional outcomes. In everyday speech, méltányosan is used as an adverb to indicate fairness or reasonableness in actions or decisions.

Antonyms and nuances: Antonyms include igazságtalan (unfair) and méltatlan (unworthy). While igazságos denotes a stricter, more absolute sense of justice, méltányos emphasizes proportionality and circumstantial fairness, reflecting a balance between competing interests rather than an abstract standard.