The Definite Article (ال)
Learn how to make nouns definite using the prefix al- and understand the sun and moon letter pronunciation rules.
Using ال (al-) for Definiteness
In Arabic, nouns are made definite by adding the prefix ال (al-) to the beginning of the word. This is equivalent to 'the' in English. When ال is added, the tanwin (nunation) on the noun is dropped, because a word cannot be definite and indefinite at the same time. Indefinite: كِتَابٌ (kitābun) = a book Definite: الكِتَابُ (al-kitābu) = the book
Sun Letters (الحُرُوف الشَّمْسِيَّة)
When ال is followed by a 'sun letter,' the laam (ل) of the article is not pronounced. Instead, the sun letter that follows is doubled (assimilated). In writing, a shadda appears on that letter. The 14 sun letters are: ت ث د ذ ر ز س ش ص ض ط ظ ل ن These letters are produced near the front of the mouth or with the tongue touching the teeth/palate, making the assimilation natural.
Moon Letters (الحُرُوف القَمَرِيَّة)
When ال is followed by a 'moon letter,' the laam is fully pronounced as expected. There is no assimilation. The 14 moon letters are: ا ب ج ح خ ع غ ف ق ك م ه و ي A helpful mnemonic in Arabic for moon letters is the phrase: ابْغِ حَجَّكَ وَخَفْ عَقِيمَهُ (ibghi hajjaka wa-khaf 'aqiimahu).
Frequently asked questions
What is The Definite Article in Arabic?
Learn how to make nouns definite using the prefix al- and understand the sun and moon letter pronunciation rules.
How do you use The Definite Article in Arabic?
In Arabic, nouns are made definite by adding the prefix ال (al-) to the beginning of the word. This is equivalent to 'the' in English. When ال is added, the tanwin (nunation) on the noun is dropped, because a word cannot be definite and indefinite at the same time.
What are common examples of The Definite Article in Arabic?
Examples from this lesson include "al-kitāb" (the book), "al-bayt" (the house), "al-madrasa" (the school) and "al-walad" (the boy).