Hallgatom a zenét, amikor pihenek.

I listen to music when I rest.

Breakdown of Hallgatom a zenét, amikor pihenek.

• én: I
• hallgatni: to listen to
• zene: the music
• amikor: when
• pihenni: to rest

Questions & Answers about Hallgatom a zenét, amikor pihenek.

Why is it Hallgatom and not Hallgatok?

Hallgatom is the first-person singular definite conjugation, used when the direct object is specific or definite. Since zenét is being treated as a specific entity (as indicated by the article a), the definite conjugation (-om) is required. By contrast, Hallgatok would be the first-person singular indefinite conjugation, which you’d use if you weren’t referring to a specific, definite object.

Why do we say a zenét instead of just zenét?

Hungarian often includes a definite article (a or az) before a direct object when the speaker has a specific object in mind. Here, using a zenét (literally “the music”) shows we’re referring to a particular piece or type of music rather than music in general.

Why is zenét in the accusative case (with the -t ending)?

The -t ending marks the direct object in Hungarian. Since we are listening to music (i.e., music is the thing being listened to), zenét takes the accusative case. This is similar to adding “-t” to indicate the object of the action.

What is the function of amikor in this sentence?

Amikor means “when,” introducing a subordinate clause of time. It specifies the moment or period during which the main action (“I listen to the music”) occurs. It connects the two parts: Hallgatom a zenét (main clause) and amikor pihenek (subordinate clause about resting).

Why is pihenek in present tense?

Hungarian typically uses the simple present tense to indicate general or repeated actions that happen at the same time. The speaker is describing a situation in which resting and listening to music regularly happen together. There is no need for a separate continuous form; the simple present can convey both repeated and ongoing actions in this context.