Verbal Nouns / Masdar (المَصْدَر)
Learn the masdar (verbal noun) - the Arabic equivalent of the infinitive or gerund - and how to derive it from verbs across all forms.
Masdar of Form I - Irregular Patterns
The masdar (المَصْدَر) is the verbal noun - the name of the action itself. It corresponds to English infinitives ('to write') or gerunds ('writing'). Unlike derived forms, Form I masdars are largely unpredictable and must be memorized. Common Form I masdar patterns: • فَعْل: ضَرْب (hitting), فَتْح (opening) • فُعُول: دُخُول (entering), خُرُوج (going out) • فِعَالَة: كِتَابَة (writing), قِرَاءَة (reading) • فَعَل: عَمَل (work), سَفَر (travel) • فُعْلَة: غُرْفَة (room - act of scooping) • فَعِيل: رَحِيل (departure) Because Form I masdars are irregular, dictionaries always list them alongside the verb. You must learn each one individually.
2 more sections and 5 practice questions
"Verbal Nouns / Masdar (المَصْدَر)" 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.
- Masdars of Forms II-V - Predictable Patterns
- Masdars of Forms VI-X and Usage
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Frequently asked questions
What is Verbal Nouns / Masdar in Arabic?
Learn the masdar (verbal noun) - the Arabic equivalent of the infinitive or gerund - and how to derive it from verbs across all forms.
How do you use Verbal Nouns / Masdar in Arabic?
The masdar (المَصْدَر) is the verbal noun - the name of the action itself. It corresponds to English infinitives ('to write') or gerunds ('writing'). Unlike derived forms, Form I masdars are largely unpredictable and must be memorized.
What are common examples of Verbal Nouns / Masdar in Arabic?
Examples from this lesson include "kitāba" (writing (the act of)), "dukhūl" (entering / entry), "'amal" (work / action) and "fahm" (understanding).