Learning a new language opens the doors to understanding a culture, and knowing how to be polite in that language is essential. Hungarian is known for its complexity, but mastering a few courteous phrases will not only make your communication smoother but also show respect to the Hungarian people you interact with. Here are some key Hungarian courtesies and polite phrases to get you started:

Köszönöm
(Thank you)—This is one of the most important words in any language, and Hungarian is no different. It can be used in any situation where you would normally express gratitude.
Ezért a finom vacsoráért nagyon köszönöm.

Legyen szíves
(Please)—When asking for something, it’s polite to add “legyen szíves” at the end of your request to make it more courteous.
Legyen szíves, adna nekem egy pohár vizet?

Viszontlátásra
(Goodbye)—Used when parting, this word literally means “until we see each other again” and is a formal way to say goodbye.
Nagyon örültem a találkozásnak. Viszontlátásra!

Szia
(Hi/Bye)—A casual way for greeting or saying goodbye to someone. It can be used in informal settings among friends or peers.
Szia, hogy vagy?

Elnézést
(Excuse me)—Whether you’re interrupting someone, trying to get past in a crowded place, or made a mistake, “elnézést” is the word to use.
Elnézést, szeretnék megkérdezni valamit.

Bocsánat
(Sorry)—To apologize for a minor mistake or when you step on someone’s foot in public transport, saying “bocsánat” shows acknowledgment of the mistake and offers an apology.
Ó, bocsánat, nem szándékosan léptem a lábára.

Jó reggelt
(Good morning)—This is how you greet people in the morning hours. It’s a polite way to start any morning interaction.
Jó reggelt kívánok, remélem jól aludtál.

Jó éjszakát
(Good night)—When you’re about to retire for the night or leave an evening event, “jó éjszakát” is the proper phrase to use.
Már késő van, szóval jó éjszakát!

Kérem
(Here you are / Can I have…? )—A versatile word that can be used when giving something to someone or when requesting an item in a polite manner.
Két kávét kérek.

Tessék?
(Pardon? / Here you are.)—Used both as a polite way to ask someone to repeat something or when offering something (like handing over an object).
Tessék? Nem értettem, mit mondtál.

Örülök, hogy megismerhetlek
(Pleased to meet you)—A warm, polite expression used when being introduced to someone for the first time.
Örülök, hogy megismerhetlek, Katalin.

Being polite in Hungarian is largely about using the right words in the right context, but also about the tone and intention behind them. These phrases will undoubtedly make your Hungarian conversations more pleasant and respectful. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to use these phrases as often as you can when engaging with Hungarian speakers. Sok sikert! (Good luck!)