LessonsDefining the Subject by a Relative Pronoun: Purposes and Rhetorical ApplicationsQuiz

One purpose of a relative expression is magnification or solemn presentation (التفخيم). The speaker chooses an outstanding characteristic or action by which an individual or group appears especially important. This gives the subsequent predication added gravity.

Teaching example:
«الذين حموا المدينة في الشدة حاضرون» — Those who protected the city in hardship are present.

The explicit assertion is their presence. The clause «حموا المدينة في الشدة» calls to mind an achievement, establishing an atmosphere of respect and importance before the predicate is delivered.

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Magnification through the relative clause

Defining the Subject by a Relative Pronoun: Purposes and Rhetorical Applications

One purpose of a relative expression is magnification or solemn presentation (التفخيم). The speaker chooses an outstanding characteristic or action by which an individual or group appears especially important. This gives the subsequent predication added gravity.

Teaching example:
«الذين حموا المدينة في الشدة حاضرون» — Those who protected the city in hardship are present.

The explicit assertion is their presence. The clause «حموا المدينة في الشدة» calls to mind an achievement, establishing an atmosphere of respect and importance before the predicate is delivered.