szóval

Szóval is a Hungarian discourse marker used to introduce a restatement, conclusion, or summary. In English it is often likened to “in other words,” “so,” or “in short.” It is most common in spoken Hungarian and in informal writing, where it helps guide the listener or reader through a train of thought.

Etymology and function: The term comes from the noun szó, meaning “word,” combined with the instrumental suffix -val, forming a fixed expression whose literal sense is “with a word.” In modern usage, szóval operates as a connective particle rather than a content word; it signals a transition to a paraphrase, recap, or concluding remark. It is typically placed at the beginning of a clause or sentence, though it can occur mid-sentence in conversational speech.

Usage and nuances: Szóval carries a conversational tone and is generally less formal than words like tehát (“therefore”) or összefoglalva (“in summary”). It often accompanies a pause or a shift in topic, signaling that the speaker is about to rephrase, summarize, or draw a conclusion from what has been said. While widely understood, it is best avoided in formal writing, where more precise connectors are preferred.

Examples:

- Meghallgattam a beszámolót, a data jó volt, szóval megbeszéltük a jövő heti lépéseket.

- Nem értettem, miért maradt ki a találkozó. Szóval, megkérdezem újra, és tisztázzuk.

See also: tehető, tehát, úgyhogy, összegzés.