mélyén

Mélyén is a Hungarian locative expression formed from the adjective mély (deep) with the locative suffix -én. It functions as a noun-like phrase meaning “in the depths” and is used to indicate the interior or hidden part of something, either in a literal sense (the ocean, a cave, the earth) or in a figurative sense (the depths of the psyche, a mystery). The phrase typically follows a noun, as in a tenger mélyén or a föld mélyén, and can also occur in constructions such as valaminek a mélyén.

Etymology and form: The term combines mély with the postposition-like suffix -én to express location within depth. In normal usage, it forms part of a larger prepositional structure, usually pairing with a noun in the genitive or with a following phrase that names what is being described as having depths.

Usage and examples: Mélyén frequently appears in literary and descriptive prose. Examples include: A tenger mélyén élő fajok különös adaptációkat mutatnak. (Species living in the depths of the sea show unusual adaptations.) A lélek mélyén rejtőző félelem gyakran meghatározza a viselkedést. (Fear hidden in the depths of the soul often shapes behavior.) A föld mélyén rejtőző barlangrendszer hosszú kutatások tárgya. (The cave system hidden in the earth’s depths is the subject of extensive research.)

See also: mélység, belső, valaminek a belseje.