Szeretem a fizikai munkát.

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Breakdown of Szeretem a fizikai munkát.

• szeretni: to like
• munka: the work
• fizikai: physical

Questions & Answers about Szeretem a fizikai munkát.

Why is it szeretem and not szeretek?

Because Hungarian uses two different verb patterns depending on the direct object:

• indefinite conjugation: when there is no definite object
• definite conjugation: when the object is definite

In Szeretem a fizikai munkát, the object is a fizikai munkát, so the verb is in the definite form: szeretem.

Very roughly:

• szeretek = I like / I like something
• szeretem = I like it / I like the definite thing mentioned

So the -em ending here tells you I and also shows the definite-object pattern.

Why is there no word for I? Shouldn't it be Én szeretem...?

Hungarian usually does not need subject pronouns because the verb ending already shows the subject.

So:

• szeretem already means I like
• én szeretem means I like, but with extra emphasis on I

You would add én only if you want contrast or emphasis, for example:

• Én szeretem a fizikai munkát, de ő nem.
  I like physical work, but he/she doesn't.

Why is it munkát and not just munka?