Épsége

Épsége is a Hungarian noun meaning the state or quality of being ép, that is, sound, intact, or in good condition. It conveys the idea of wholeness or integrity of an object, structure, system, or living being. The base noun is épség, and épsége appears with the standard third-person possessive suffix to denote “its soundness.” In practice, épsége is used when discussing the condition or preservation of something, rather than merely its health or vitality.

Etymology and form: épség is formed from the adjective ép (“sound, whole”) with the abstract-noun suffix -ség. The form épsége adds a possessive or determiner function, allowing phrases such as “az épsége” (its soundness) and “az épségének megőrzése” (the preservation of its soundness). The word belongs to general vocabulary and is most common in formal, literary, or preservation-related contexts.

Usage and nuance: Épsége refers to structural integrity, functional viability, or moral/cocial integrity in a broad sense. It can describe buildings, artifacts, ecosystems, institutions, or even abstract systems. It is often contrasted with egészség, which in Hungarian primarily denotes health or vitality rather than structural integrity or wholeness.

Examples:

- A ház épségének megőrzése fontos a restaurálás során.

- Az intézmény épsége érdekében intézkedéseket hoztak.

Notes: While épsége is a legitimate word, it remains relatively formal or specialist in tone. In everyday speech, speakers may choose more common synonyms depending on context.