áthatolták

áthatolták is a Hungarian verb form. It represents the third-person plural past tense of the verb áthatolni (often written as áthatol), meaning to pass through, penetrate, or break through a barrier or obstacle. The construction combines the prefix át-, indicating crossing completely, with the verb hatol (to penetrate). In past tense, the form ends with -ák, yielding áthatolták for “they penetrated through.”

Etymology and morphology: The prefix át- signals crossing from one side to the other, and the base verb hatol conveys piercing or forcing a way through. When conjugated in the past tense for a plural subject, Hungarian adds the suffix -ták, producing áthatolták. The form can be used both literally (military, architectural, or physical barriers) and metaphorically (barriers of doubt, fear, or secrecy).

Usage and nuance: áthatolták describes an action in which multiple agents collectively achieved penetration or breakthrough. It is common in historical or narrative prose to convey a decisive breach, such as a breach of defenses, a breakthrough in communications, or the overcoming of obstacles in a process. In metaphorical contexts, it can emphasize the extent and force of penetration rather than mere crossing.

Examples:

- A csapatok áthatolták a védelmet. (The teams penetrated the defense.)

- A fény áthatolta a sötétséget. (The light penetrated the darkness.)

See also: áthatol, hatol, át- prefix, Hungarian verb conjugation.