majdnem

Majdnem is a Hungarian adverb meaning almost or nearly. It indicates that something is very close to being true or realized, but not quite. It typically precedes the word it modifies, as in “majdnem kész” (almost ready) or “majdnem elfelejtettem” (I almost forgot). It can also modify expressions such as “majdnem mindenki” (almost everyone) or “majdnem minden nap” (almost every day).

The term is common in both spoken language and informal writing; in more formal contexts, synonyms like szinte can be used with a similar sense, though majdnem often conveys a slightly softer degree of closeness. Majdnem is invariable and does not decline for gender, number, or case.

Etymology is not entirely settled. It is generally treated as a native Hungarian compound rather than a loanword, though precise historical origins are not universally agreed upon.

Usage notes include the ability of majdnem to express approximate numerical quantities, such as “majdnem három óra” (almost three hours). It is used to stress proximity to a state while signaling that the state was not actually reached.

See also: szinte, gyakorlatilag, közel. These terms share a related meaning of proximity or near-certainty, with szinte often carrying a somewhat stronger emphasis and gyakorlatilag implying practical equivalence.