nézést

nézést is a Hungarian term that translates literally to “look out” or “watch out” in English, but in contemporary usage it functions as a common expression for apology or polite interruption. The phrase is typically shortened to a single word nézés, and is used in everyday conversation to acknowledge a mistake, to express regret, or to get someone’s attention in a courteous manner. For example, “nézést, elnézést” can be rendered as “sorry” or “excuse me” in English, while “nézétek” (plural) is a way of gently saying “please watch out” or “be careful”.

The literal sense of the word derives from the Hungarian verb nézni, meaning “to look” or “to watch”, and originally referred to the act of looking for danger. Over time, as a social etiquette marker, it evolved into a polite formula of apology. It is often accompanied by a hand gesture, raising the hand near the face, especially when calling attention to a mistake or interrupting. In public transportation, with a laptop, or in office settings the expression is frequently used to apologize for an accidental touch or to politely ask someone to back off. In written Hungarian, the word appears as a single word or as a part of longer forms such as nem sérelme, meaning “no offense”. This expression is ubiquitous across all age groups and is considered essential for polite interaction in Hungarian society.