megváltotta

Megváltotta is a Hungarian verb form, specifically the past tense form of megváltani. The base verb megváltani means to redeem, buy back, or ransom something, and in a broader sense to rescue or save someone or something from a burden or obligation. In religious language, megváltás (the noun form) denotes salvation or redemption, particularly in Christian contexts. The meaning can also extend metaphorically to “redeem oneself” or to compensate for a past fault or debt.

Etymology and structure: megváltani is built with the prefix meg-, which often signals completion or totality, combined with váltani, a root associated with changing or exchanging. The past tense form megváltotta functions as the third-person singular past tense form (definite or indefinite, depending on the sentence). The related noun megváltás corresponds to the act or state of redemption or salvation, while megváltó can function as an adjective or noun meaning “redeemer” or “redeeming.”

Usage notes: In everyday Hungarian, megváltani typically refers to buying back something that was pledged, sold, or owed, or to paying a price to regain possession or freedom. In religious or moral contexts, megváltás is used to discuss salvation or deliverance from sin. The form megváltotta is used when reporting that someone redeemed, bought back, or saved something or someone in the past, often with a definite object.

Related forms and terms: megváltás (redemption, salvation), megváltó (redeemer, redeeming), megbocsátás (forgiveness) is a related but distinct concept. The verb is transitive and can govern various direct objects depending on the sense (property, debt, freedom, or moral status).