Tanween is an essential concept in Arabic grammar that involves the use of double vowels to indicate the pronunciation of certain words. It plays a crucial role in proper recitation and pronunciation of Arabic texts, particularly in the Quran.
There are three primary types of Tanween—Fateh, Kasrah, and Dhamma—each denoting different vowel sounds and contributing to the rhythm and clarity of the Arabic language. These marks, when placed over letters, help provide meaning and flow in speech.
There are 3 types of tanween which are:
1- Tanween in Fateh:
In Fateh, the sound is (tann), and It is denoted by a double fatha above the letter.
For example: I bought a new book (اشتريت كتابًا جديدًا)
2- Tanween in kasrah:
In Kasrah, the sound is (tinn), It is denoted by a double kasra under the letter.
For example: I wrote with a new pen (كَتَبْتُ بَـقَلَمٍ جَدِيْدٍ)
3- Tanween in dhamma:
In Dhamma, the sound is (tunn), It is denoted by a double dhamma above the letter.
For example: The boy is small (الولد صغيرٌ)
4- Tanween with Noon Sakin
Tanween is the combination of a double short vowel in the Arabic language along with pronouncing the sound of the Arabic letter An-Noon. However, Tanween cannot be replaced with the letter “An-noon” itself, especially when it comes as Noon saakinah.
5- Additional Alif with Tanween
When using Tanween with Al-fateh, an additional Alif without Hamza is written to place the Tanween mark on it. However, there are two exceptions where the additional Alif is not required, and the Tanween mark can be placed directly:
- When the final letter of an Arabic word is (ة) or (ـــة): This is called At-ta’a Al-marboota, for example, (معلمة) or (هرة).
- When the final letter of an Arabic word is Hamza (ء) preceded by the Arabic letter Alif Al-madd:
- ماءً
- سماءً
- هواءً
Note on Historical Linguistic Practices
Since the verbal method of uttering the Arabic language was different from the written method in the past, linguistic scholars innovated dots, signs, Tanween, etc., to make the written form of the Arabic language align with the correct verbal form.
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Conclusion:
In conclusion, Tanween is a key component in Arabic grammar that impacts both pronunciation and comprehension. The three types—Tanween in Fateh, Kasrah, and Dhamma—each contribute to the richness and precision of the Arabic language, making it more melodious and accurate. Understanding how to apply these Tanween marks correctly is essential for anyone aiming to speak or recite Arabic fluently.
