When learning a new language, understanding the nuances between seemingly similar words can be a game-changer. In Hungarian, two such words are tanít and tanul. These words play crucial roles in the context of education and learning, and knowing how to use them correctly will significantly enhance your Hungarian language skills. This article will delve into the meanings, uses, and differences between these two essential verbs, along with some related vocabulary to enrich your learning experience.
Tanít – To Teach
The Hungarian verb tanít means “to teach.” It is used when someone imparts knowledge or skills to others. Understanding how to use this verb can help you describe educational activities from the perspective of the teacher.
Tanít
To teach.
Az új tanár matematikát tanít az iskolában.
Tanár
Teacher. The person who teaches.
A tanár mindig kész segíteni a diákoknak.
Diák
Student. The person who learns.
A diák figyelmesen hallgatja a tanárt.
Conjugation of Tanít
Conjugating verbs in Hungarian can be a bit tricky due to the complexity of the language. Here is how you conjugate tanít in the present tense.
Én tanítok
I teach.
Én tanítok angol nyelvet a gimnáziumban.
Te tanítasz
You teach.
Te tanítasz zenét a gyerekeknek.
Ő tanít
He/She teaches.
Ő tanít fizikát az egyetemen.
Mi tanítunk
We teach.
Mi tanítunk magyar nyelvet a külföldieknek.
Ti tanítotok
You all teach.
Ti tanítotok történelmet az iskolában.
Ők tanítanak
They teach.
Ők tanítanak különböző tantárgyakat az iskolában.
Tanul – To Learn
On the flip side, the Hungarian verb tanul means “to learn.” This verb is used when someone is acquiring knowledge or skills. Knowing how to use this word will help you describe your own learning activities or those of others.
Tanul
To learn.
Péter németül tanul az egyetemen.
Óra
Lesson or class. The time period during which teaching occurs.
A óra nagyon érdekes volt ma.
Házi feladat
Homework. Tasks assigned to students to be completed outside of class.
Sokat kell dolgoznom a házi feladat miatt.
Conjugation of Tanul
Just like with tanít, it’s essential to know how to conjugate tanul in the present tense.
Én tanulok
I learn.
Én tanulok magyarul minden nap.
Te tanulsz
You learn.
Te tanulsz angolul a nyelviskolában.
Ő tanul
He/She learns.
Ő tanul franciául az egyetemen.
Mi tanulunk
We learn.
Mi tanulunk együtt a könyvtárban.
Ti tanultok
You all learn.
Ti tanultok spanyolul a nyelvtanfolyamon.
Ők tanulnak
They learn.
Ők tanulnak kínaiul a nyelviskolában.
Common Phrases and Expressions
To help you get a better grasp of these verbs, here are some common phrases and expressions using tanít and tanul.
Tanít valakit valamire
To teach someone something.
Az anya tanítja a gyereket írni.
Tanul valamit
To learn something.
A diák tanulja a fizikát az iskolában.
Tanulni szeretne
Would like to learn.
János tanulni szeretne gitározni.
Tanítani szeretne
Would like to teach.
Anna tanítani szeretne matematikát.
Tanulási folyamat
Learning process.
A tanulási folyamat hosszú és kihívásokkal teli.
Tanítási módszer
Teaching method.
A tanár új tanítási módszert próbál ki az osztályban.
Differences in Usage
While both tanít and tanul are related to education, their usage varies significantly. Understanding the context in which each verb is used will help you avoid common mistakes.
Tanít is used from the perspective of the educator. It involves the act of imparting knowledge or skills. For example, a teacher who teaches mathematics or a parent who teaches their child how to ride a bike.
Tanul is used from the perspective of the learner. It involves the act of acquiring knowledge or skills. For example, a student who learns a new language or someone who is learning how to cook.
Example Sentences to Highlight Differences
To give you a clearer picture, here are some example sentences that highlight the differences between tanít and tanul.
A tanár angolt tanít az iskolában.
The teacher teaches English at the school.
A tanár angolt tanít az iskolában.
A diák angolt tanul az iskolában.
The student learns English at the school.
A diák angolt tanul az iskolában.
Az anya főzni tanítja a lányát.
The mother teaches her daughter how to cook.
Az anya főzni tanítja a lányát.
A lány főzni tanul az anyjától.
The girl learns how to cook from her mother.
A lány főzni tanul az anyjától.
Related Vocabulary
To further aid in your understanding, here are some additional vocabulary words related to tanít and tanul.
Képzés
Training or education. The process of teaching or learning a skill or type of behavior.
A vállalat új képzést indított a dolgozók számára.
Oktatás
Education. The systematic instruction, schooling, or training given to the young in preparation for the work of life.
Az oktatás fontos része a gyerekek életének.
Tudás
Knowledge. The facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education.
A diákok sok tudást szereznek az iskolában.
Iskola
School. An institution for educating children or giving instruction in a particular subject.
Az iskola reggel nyolckor kezdődik.
Egyetem
University. An institution of higher education and research, which awards academic degrees in various academic disciplines.
Az egyetem nagy előadóteremmel rendelkezik.
Tantárgy
Subject. A branch of knowledge studied or taught in a school, college, or university.
A kedvenc tantárgyam a történelem.
Vizsga
Exam. A formal test of a person’s knowledge or proficiency in a subject or skill.
Holnap lesz a matematikai vizsgám.
Feladat
Task. A piece of work to be done or undertaken.
A tanár sok feladatot adott a hétvégére.
Tanulócsoport
Study group. A group of students who meet regularly to study a subject under the guidance of a teacher.
A tanulócsoport minden héten találkozik.
Tanterem
Classroom. A room in a school where lessons take place.
A tanterem nagyon tágas és világos.
Understanding the differences and correct usage of tanít and tanul is crucial for anyone learning Hungarian. These verbs not only enrich your vocabulary but also help you communicate more effectively in various educational contexts. Use the example sentences and related vocabulary to practice and reinforce your understanding. Happy learning!
