végig

Végig is a Hungarian word that functions mainly as an adverb and as a component of several compound verbs. Its core meaning is to indicate extent in space or time, roughly translating to “along,” “all the way,” or “throughout.” It can express moving along a path or covering a duration, and it can intensify the scope of an action.

Etymology: The word comes from vége, meaning “end,” combined with the suffix -ig, which marks extent or limit. The resulting sense is that something spans the entire length or duration from start to finish.

Usage: In spatial contexts, végig accompanies a location expressed by a case-marked noun phrase. Examples: “Végig az utcán sétáltam” (I walked along the street), “Végig a folyóparton futtunk” (We run along the riverbank). In verbal constructions, végig forms part of compound verbs to express thorough or complete action, sometimes making a single word: “végignéz” (to watch through to the end), “végigcsinálni” (to do something to completion). Example: “A filmet végignézte” (He watched the film to the end). “Végigcsináltam a feladatot” (I completed the task).

Notes: Végig is a versatile particle in everyday Hungarian and is pronounced with a long é and a final hard g. It should not be confused with vége, the noun meaning “end.” The meaning shifts with context—from physical traversal to thoroughness over a period or process—and it frequently appears in fixed expressions and compound verbs.