Learn Hardcore Hungarian: Én tanulok magyarul.

In Hungarian, the verb conjugation generally shows who is performing the action, so Én (I) is often optional. However, adding Én can be used to emphasize the subject or to clarify who is doing the action if there might be confusion.

Why is the verb tanulok used instead of something like tanulom?

Hungarian has two main conjugations: indefinite and definite. Tanulok is the indefinite first-person singular form and is used because "Hungarian" here is expressed as magyarul, an adverb, not a direct object. If you said a magyar nyelvet (meaning the Hungarian language as a definite object), you would use tanulom instead.

What does magyarul mean exactly, and why does it end with -ul?

Magyarul literally means in Hungarian. The -ul ending creates an adverb form indicating the manner or language of the action. So magyarul tells us the manner in which I am studying is in Hungarian rather than stating a direct object.

Is it possible to omit Én and just say Tanulok magyarul?

Yes. Hungarian allows subject pronouns to be dropped because the verb form already signals the subject. Tanulok magyarul is a perfectly natural way to say I am learning Hungarian, although using Én can add emphasis if needed.

Does word order matter in Én tanulok magyarul?

Hungarian has a relatively flexible word order compared to English, but typically the focus word (the element you want to emphasize) appears immediately before the verb. In this neutral statement, Én tanulok magyarul is a common and natural-sounding order. However, if you wanted to emphasize what you are learning, you might say Magyarul tanulok (I am learning Hungarian).