LessonsDefining Majāz: Conditions, Indication, and Classification by ConventionQuiz

الكلمة المستعملة
A word actually employed in speech.

Knowing that “asad” exists in a lexicon does not determine the status of all its occurrences. Literal or figurative classification attaches to a particular use with an intended meaning, not merely to a dictionary entry.

“An asad in the forest” suggests the animal in an ordinary context, whereas “an asad is delivering a sermon from the pulpit” directs the listener toward a human being. The surrounding speech determines what use is being evaluated.

Opening interactive controls...

Why majāz requires an actual occurrence

Defining Majāz: Conditions, Indication, and Classification by Convention

الكلمة المستعملة
A word actually employed in speech.

Knowing that “asad” exists in a lexicon does not determine the status of all its occurrences. Literal or figurative classification attaches to a particular use with an intended meaning, not merely to a dictionary entry.

“An asad in the forest” suggests the animal in an ordinary context, whereas “an asad is delivering a sermon from the pulpit” directs the listener toward a human being. The surrounding speech determines what use is being evaluated.