Landing in Hungary for the first time? Or maybe you've been living here for a while but still feel out of place? Between getting your bearings, exploring new spots, and navigating the culture shock, it’s a lot to take in.
But it can especially feel overwhelming when trying to fit in. Whether meeting new friends or getting through daily life, language can be your biggest ally. If you’ve already tried your hand at Hungarian with the annoying green owl, you know the basics like "szia" and "igen." But if you want to really impress your Hungarian peers, the trick is slang.
Using local slang not only helps you sound cooler, but it’s also a great way to break the ice and start feeling like part of the crowd. When you show genuine interest in the local culture, people are likely to appreciate it and reciprocate. So here are some of the easiest (and coolest!) Hungarian slang words that will help you blend in and connect with others faster than you can say lángos!
11 Hungarian Slang Words You Need to Know
1. Csá (cha) – Hi/Hello
When you want to sound casual and chill, "csá" is the way to greet your friends.
Example: Instead of a stiff “hello,” throw out a relaxed “csá” when you walk into the room.
2. Lóvé (lo-vey) – Money
Running low on cash? Here’s your go-to word for money.
Example: “I’m out of lóvé, can we go somewhere cheaper?”
3. Gáz (gaz) – Cringe/Lame
Originally meaning gas, but now used for anything that’s awkward or embarrassing.
Example: “That joke was so gáz, dude!”
4. Meló (me-lo) – Job
Just another day at work? Now you’ve got the word for it.
Example: “I can’t come out tonight, I’ve got meló early tomorrow.”
5. Menő (me-noo) – Cool
When something or someone is seriously cool.
Example: “Those shoes are menő!”
6. Tesó / Tesóm (te-sho / te-shom) – Bro
Your go-to word for “bro,” works great when talking to friends.
Example: “Tesó! Haven’t seen you in ages!”
7. Adom (a-dom) – I’m Down
Perfect when you want to agree with someone’s great idea.
Example: “Grab a drink tonight?” “Adom!”
8. Fullos (fool-losh) – That’s Fire
When something is seriously impressive or awesome.
Example: “That new song is fullos!”
9. Para (pa-ra) – Stress
And “Ne Para” could be a chill way of saying “don’t worry.”
Example: “Ne para, everything’s gonna be fine.”
10. Jó fej (yo fey) – Cool/Nice Person
Need a way to say someone’s cool or nice? This is the one.
Example: “My new roommate is really jó fej.”
11. Kaja (ka-ya) – Food
Hungry? Now you’ve got the perfect slang for food.
Example: “I’m starving, where’s the kaja at?”
There you have it, your survival guide to Hungarian slang! Whether you're hitting up house parties, chatting with your classmates, or just trying to keep up with the fast-paced conversations, these slang words will come in handy. Keep these words in your back pocket and don’t be afraid to use them. Before long, you'll not only know how to sound like a local, but you'll feel like one too.
Now, go out there, and say "csá" to your new friends!
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