The Pillars of Predication in Arabic Grammar Terminology and Usage

Abstract

This study explores the semantic implications of the predicate and subject, the two pillars of predication in Arabic grammar, as perceived by Al-Khalil, Sibawayh, and a number of subsequent and contemporary grammarians who studied the idea of predication. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study offers their opinions on the semantic functions of these components in nominal and verbal structures.

This study is important because it clarifies the semantic functions of the predicate and subject, the two constituents of predication, and comprehends the causes of the contrast between the beliefs of Al-Khalil and Sibawayh and the majority of grammarians.

The study comes to the conclusion that Al-Khalil and Sibawayh employed the terms "predicate" and "subject" in the construction of grammatical theory, which is essentially predicated on linguistic structures with two elements: the subject and the predicate. The purpose of this usage, which is linguistic rather than terminological, is to demonstrate how Arabic language structures are constructed, independent of the kind of phrase (verbal or nominal).