Éretlen

Éretlen is a Hungarian adjective meaning unripe or immature. It describes something that has not yet reached full maturity, most commonly fruits and vegetables, but can also be used metaphorically for ideas, plans, or abilities that have not yet developed their full potential.

Etymology and form: The term derives from érett, meaning ripe, and is formed with the negative suffix -tlen to indicate the absence of ripeness. In ordinary usage, éretlen functions as a straightforward descriptor for things still in an early stage of development.

Usage and nuance: In horticulture and commerce, éretlen is used to denote produce that should not be consumed or sold as ripe fruit. It is also used metaphorically to describe something inadequately developed or a person who acts without sufficient maturity. The phrase éretlen gyümölcs is common, and éretlen ötlet or éretlen gondolat appears in more figurative contexts, though it may carry a judgmental connotation if directed at a person or plan.

Examples: Az alma még éretlen; zöld és kemény. Egy éretlen ötlet nem ad jó alapot a döntéshez. In both literal and figurative use, éretlen contrasts with érlelt or érett, which denote ripeness or maturity.

Related terms and contrasts: Related concepts include érés (ripening), érlelés (maturation), and éretlenség (immaturity). These terms help describe stages from initial development to full maturity in both biological and figurative senses.