kinyúlt

Kinyúlt is a Hungarian verb form that generally translates to “stretched out” or “reached out” in English. It arises from the verb kinyújt, meaning to stretch out or extend, with the ki- prefix indicating outward direction. The form is used to describe a past, completed action of extending a limb, an object, or a part of the body toward a target.

Etymology and formation

The word combines ki- (out, outward) with nyújt (to stretch or extend). Kinyúlt represents a finite past tense form derived from this base, and it appears in narrative and descriptive contexts to convey that the stretching action has been completed. The exact suffixing and conjugation can vary with person and mood in Hungarian grammar, but kinyúlt is widely understood as a past tense instance of reaching or extending.

Usage and nuances

In everyday Hungarian, kinyúlt is used for literal stretches—grabbing something out of reach, reaching toward an object, or extending a limb for a purpose. It can also be used figuratively to describe extending influence, attention, or effort toward a goal or audience. The term commonly appears in fiction, journalism, and descriptive prose where precise depiction of a physical action is desired.

Examples

- A férfi kinyúlt az asztal felé, hogy elérje a könyvet. (The man stretched out toward the table to reach the book.)

- A remény kinyúlt a reménykedő szavak felé. (Hope stretched out toward hopeful words.)

Relation and related terms

Kinyújt is the related infinitive verb meaning “to stretch out” or “to extend.” Other related forms cover different tenses and conjugations in Hungarian grammar.

See also

Hungarian grammar, kinyújt, nyúl (root concepts related to distance and reach).