The Dual Form (المُثَنَّى)
Learn how Arabic expresses pairs and two of something using the dual form, including dual nouns, adjectives, verbs, and pronouns.
Forming the Dual Noun
Arabic has a special grammatical number for exactly two of something, called the dual (المُثَنَّى). Unlike English, which only distinguishes singular and plural, Arabic has three numbers: singular (مُفْرَد), dual (مُثَنَّى), and plural (جَمْع). To form the dual, add the suffix ـَانِ (-āni) in the nominative case, or ـَيْنِ (-ayni) in the accusative and genitive cases, to the singular noun. Rules: • Remove the taa marbuta (ة) before adding the dual suffix: طَالِبَة → طَالِبَتَانِ • The taa marbuta becomes a regular taa (ت) when the suffix is added. • The dual NEVER takes tanween (nunation).
2 more sections and 5 practice questions
"The Dual Form (المُثَنَّى)" is one of 38 grammar lessons in Fahm Premium, each with worked examples and self-checking practice. The first 3 grammar lessons are free to try.
- Dual in Sentences and Case Endings
- Dual Pronouns and Verb Conjugations
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Frequently asked questions
What is The Dual Form in Arabic?
Learn how Arabic expresses pairs and two of something using the dual form, including dual nouns, adjectives, verbs, and pronouns.
How do you use The Dual Form in Arabic?
Arabic has a special grammatical number for exactly two of something, called the dual (المُثَنَّى). Unlike English, which only distinguishes singular and plural, Arabic has three numbers: singular (مُفْرَد), dual (مُثَنَّى), and plural (جَمْع).
What are common examples of The Dual Form in Arabic?
Examples from this lesson include "kitābun → kitābāni" (a book → two books (nominative)), "kitābayni" (two books (accusative/genitive)), "tālibatun → tālibatāni" (a female student → two female students) and "rajulun → rajulāni" (a man → two men (nominative)).