végességet

Végesség is a property describing that something has a finite number of elements, finite extent, or finite duration. It contrasts with végtelenség (infinity). The term is used across disciplines such as mathematics, logic, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy to indicate boundedness, termination, or a limited scope.

In mathematics, a finite object has finite cardinality: a finite set contains a finite number of elements, a finite sequence has finite length, and a finite graph has a finite number of vertices and edges. Finite groups, finite fields, and finite automata are standard concepts in algebra, number theory, and theoretical computer science. A language is finite if it contains only finitely many strings. Finite structures are generally more amenable to complete enumeration and computation than infinite ones.

In computer science, finiteness underpins notions such as finite automata, finite-state machines, and termination of algorithms. Computations with finite memory or time bounds are central to complexity theory and verification. Finite resources—time, space, or energy—shape the design and analysis of algorithms and systems.

In linguistics and philosophy, finiteness appears in different guises. Linguistically, finite verbs express features like tense and agreement. More broadly, finiteness in philosophy or metaphysics is discussed in contrast to potential or actual infinity, exploring questions about limits, time, and the scope of reality or knowledge.

Etymology: végesség derives from vég, meaning end or limit, with the suffix -esség forming a noun indicating a state or quality. The concept is closely related to its opposite, infinity (végtelenség).