eltérhetnek

Eltérhetnek is a Hungarian verb form meaning “they may diverge” or “they could differ.” It is built from the verb eltérni (to deviate, to differ) with the suffix -het indicating possibility and the 3rd person plural ending -nek, yielding a finite form used for subjects in the plural. The phrase expresses uncertainty or potential variation among multiple items, often in analysis, comparisons, or reporting.

Usage and nuance: Eltérhetnek is commonly used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as academic writing, journalism, or technical reports, when noting that several data points, opinions, or outcomes might not align with a standard, expectation, or other values. It emphasizes potential rather than definite difference. The corresponding forms exist for other persons and numbers (e.g., eltérhetünk = we may differ, eltérhetsz = you may differ, eltérhetnek = they may differ).

Examples:

- A becslések eltérhetnek a tényleges adatoktól. (The estimates may differ from the actual data.)

- A résztvevők véleménye eltérhet a kutató álláspontjától. (The participants’ opinions may differ from the researcher’s view.)

- A prognózis eltérhet a valós eredményektől. (The prognosis may deviate from the actual results.)

In summary, eltérhetnek is a useful, neutral way to indicate potential divergence among multiple elements, without asserting that divergence will occur. It aligns with Hungarian’s broader use of -het/-hetnek to express possibility across persons and numbers.