A Computational Tool for Arabic Trilateral Abstract Geminate Verbs Morphology

Abstract

This paper addresses the complex challenge faced by both learners and users of the Arabic language: the precise identification of morphological patterns and categories associated with the imperfect verb, particularly focusing on the trilateral abstract geminate verb. The ultimate objective of this project is to create a software application that streamlines this identification and determination process, thereby enhancing the learning journey and elevating proficiency in the Arabic language. To realize this objective, an exhaustive investigation was conducted into the relevant verbs, drawing from diverse Arabic dictionaries including Al-Fayrūzabādī's al-Qāmūs al-muHīT Dictionary, as well as entries from Ibn ManĎūr's lisān al-ςarab and az-Zabidi's tāj al-ςarūs min jawāhir al-qāmūs. This process yielded a comprehensive database of 562 entries, meticulously tabulated to include detailed morphological conjugations. Notably, considerations were extended to encompass the points and range of articulation, as these factors exert influence on the verb patterns. Subsequently, the developed software application underwent rigorous testing involving diverse groups of language users and learners, totaling 119 participants. Each participant was presented with a distinct test comprising a list of 10 verbs, tasked with determining the appropriate imperfect form. The accuracy of participants’ responses ranged from 40.67% to 50.80%, underscoring the significance and necessity of the software's development. Moreover, the study unveiled four distinct categories to which the verbs under investigation belong, presenting a pivotal revelation in the realm of Arabic verb analysis.