Signification
Used when asking to repeat or when handing something.
Contexte culturel
The 'Tessék' vs 'Mi' debate is a classic marker of upbringing. Children are strictly taught to use 'Tessék'. In older cafes, waiters use 'Tessék' as a prompt. It's not a question of 'if' you want something, but 'what' you want. In villages, you might hear 'Tessen' or 'Tessék mondani' more frequently as a sign of deep respect for elders. Younger people might use 'Mondd' (Say it) or 'Igen?' among themselves, but 'Tessék' remains the default for strangers.
The Intonation Rule
If your voice goes up, you're asking. If it goes down, you're giving. Master this to avoid confusion!
Avoid 'Mi?'
Even if you hear locals say 'Mi?', as a learner, stick to 'Tessék?' to ensure you always sound respectful.
Signification
Used when asking to repeat or when handing something.
The Intonation Rule
If your voice goes up, you're asking. If it goes down, you're giving. Master this to avoid confusion!
Avoid 'Mi?'
Even if you hear locals say 'Mi?', as a learner, stick to 'Tessék?' to ensure you always sound respectful.
The 'Mom' Test
If a Hungarian mother would be happy with your politeness, you're using 'Tessék' correctly.
Teste-toi
Match the intonation of 'Tessék' to the situation.
1. Handing a ticket to a conductor. 2. Asking a friend to repeat a secret. 3. Answering a knock at the door.
Falling is for giving, Rising is for questions, Neutral/Short is for answering.
Which is the most polite way to ask for repetition in a shop?
Az eladó túl halkan beszél. Mit mondasz?
'Tessék?' is the standard polite response. 'Mi?' is rude.
Complete the dialogue with the correct word.
– ________, itt a kávéd. – Köszönöm szépen!
When handing something over, 'Tessék' is the correct choice.
Choose the best response for the phone call.
Phone rings. You pick up: 'Halló, ________?'
'Halló, tessék?' is the standard way to answer a phone call.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
The Three Faces of Tessék
Asking (Rising Tone)
- • Pardon?
- • What did you say?
- • I didn't hear.
Giving (Falling Tone)
- • Here you go.
- • Take this.
- • Here is your change.
Responding (Neutral)
- • Yes?
- • Come in!
- • I'm listening.
Banque d exercices
4 exercices1. Handing a ticket to a conductor. 2. Asking a friend to repeat a secret. 3. Answering a knock at the door.
Falling is for giving, Rising is for questions, Neutral/Short is for answering.
Az eladó túl halkan beszél. Mit mondasz?
'Tessék?' is the standard polite response. 'Mi?' is rude.
– ________, itt a kávéd. – Köszönöm szépen!
When handing something over, 'Tessék' is the correct choice.
Phone rings. You pick up: 'Halló, ________?'
'Halló, tessék?' is the standard way to answer a phone call.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with anyone from a child to a boss. It's safe in 99% of situations.
No. For 'You're welcome', use 'Szívesen'. 'Tessék' is for 'Here you go'.
It's just a slightly longer, more melodic version of 'Tessék?'. It sounds a bit more natural in casual conversation.
Yes, a very sharp 'Tessék?!' can mean 'Excuse me?!' or 'What did you just say to me?'.
'Parancsoljon' is much more formal, like 'At your service'. Use 'Tessék' for everyday life.
No, when used as an expression, it's always 'Tessék'.
Yes, it's the standard way to say 'Come in' or 'Yes, who is it?'.
Mainly in dialogue in books or in very informal emails. It's primarily a spoken word.
It's an idiom meaning 'half-heartedly' or 'just for show'.
Yes, it's very polite to say 'Tessék' when handing over the extra money.
Expressions liées
Parancsoljon
specialized formAt your command / Please (formal)
Hogy tessék?
synonymPardon me?
Tessék parancsolni
builds onPlease, go ahead
Szívesen
contrastYou're welcome
Kérem
similarPlease / I beg your pardon
