kiléphetnek

Kiléphetnek is a Hungarian verb form meaning "they may step out" or "they can leave." It is the third-person plural present potential (modal) form of kilépni, the verb meaning to exit, to step out, or to leave a place.

Morphology and formation: Kiléphetnek is built from the stem kilép-, the potential suffix -het-, and the plural present suffix -nek. The -het- suffix expresses possibility or ability, and its form harmonizes with the stem vowels; because kilép ends with a front vowel (é), the correct modal ending is -het. The final -nek marks the 3rd person plural subject. The corresponding singular form is kiléphet (he/she may step out).

Usage: This form is used to indicate that the action is possible or permissible for the subject. It does not convey obligation. For example: A diákok kiléphetnek a teremből. The students may step out of the room. Another example: A dolgozók kiléphetnek az irodából. The workers may leave the office. The form can appear in various tenses and contexts when combined with other parts of the sentence to specify time or condition.

Etymology and related forms: Kiléphetnek derives from kilépni, where ki- is a prefix indicating outward movement and lép- is the root meaning “to step.” The Hungarian -hat/-het suffix is a productive modal marker used with many verbs to express possibility or permission, with the form tailored to vowel harmony and person.

See also: Hungarian grammar, potential mood, -hat/-het suffix, kilépni.