LessonsTen Semantic Functions of Form X (Istifʿāl): Seeking, Suitability, Finding, Judging, Transformation, Adoption, Abbreviation, Response, Equivalence and Independent UseQuiz

TypeTextbook exampleWhat changes?
Outwardاِسْتَحْجَرَ الطِّينُClay becomes stone-like
Figurativeاِسْتَنْوَقَ الْجَمَلُCamel takes on she-camel-like qualities

Both belong to taḥawwul, the semantic idea of changing state or characterization. The difference is between an observable physical quality and figurative resemblance. Neither example should automatically be forced into the “seeking” sense of Form X.

Opening interactive controls...

Two Types of Transformation

Ten Semantic Functions of Form X (Istifʿāl): Seeking, Suitability, Finding, Judging, Transformation, Adoption, Abbreviation, Response, Equivalence and Independent Use

TypeTextbook exampleWhat changes?
Outwardاِسْتَحْجَرَ الطِّينُClay becomes stone-like
Figurativeاِسْتَنْوَقَ الْجَمَلُCamel takes on she-camel-like qualities

Both belong to taḥawwul, the semantic idea of changing state or characterization. The difference is between an observable physical quality and figurative resemblance. Neither example should automatically be forced into the “seeking” sense of Form X.