szégyenleni

Szégyenleni is a Hungarian verb that translates to "to be ashamed" or "to feel shame." It describes the emotional state of experiencing embarrassment or humiliation due to one's own actions, words, or circumstances, or those of someone with whom one is associated. The verb can be used in various contexts, from personal guilt over a mistake to collective shame over a societal issue.

The root of the word, "szégyen," means shame. Therefore, "szégyenleni" specifically denotes the act of feeling or expressing this shame. It implies an awareness of having fallen short of a personal, social, or moral standard, leading to discomfort and a desire to conceal the offending behavior or situation.

For instance, one might "szégyenleni" for being late to an important meeting, for a poor performance, or for an unethical deed. It can also extend to feeling shame on behalf of others, such as when a family member behaves inappropriately. The intensity of the feeling can range from mild embarrassment to profound humiliation.

The verb can be used reflexively, such as "szégyenli magát" (he/she is ashamed of himself/herself), highlighting the internal nature of the emotion. In Hungarian, like in many other languages, shame is a complex emotion intertwined with self-esteem, social norms, and personal values. Understanding "szégyenleni" is key to grasping a nuanced aspect of Hungarian emotional vocabulary and cultural expression.