Specification (Tamyiz) in Arabic

Overview

Specification (التمييز, at-tamyiz) is an accusative noun that clarifies a vague or general expression. It specifies what exactly is meant by a quantity, comparison, or abstract quality. In English, similar structures include "twenty students" (what kind of twenty?), "older in age" (older in what?), and "a cup of water" (a cup of what?).

At the B1 level, tamyiz is important because it appears after numbers (11-99), comparatives, and expressions of quantity. The tamyiz noun is always in the accusative case (منصوب) and is typically indefinite. It resolves ambiguity by specifying the nature of the preceding general term.

Understanding tamyiz also helps you understand why the counted noun after numbers 11-99 is singular accusative -- it functions as a tamyiz.

How It Works

Accusative noun clarifying vague quantity or quality. After numbers 11-99, comparative, or expressions of quantity. Removes ambiguity.

Examples in Context

Arabic	English	Note
عشرون طالباً	twenty students	Common usage
أكبر منه سنّاً	older than him (in age)	Standard pattern
كم كتاباً قرأت؟	How many books did you read?	Everyday example
ازداد علماً.	He increased in knowledge.	Key distinction
ازداد الطالب علمًا.	The student increased in knowledge.	Abstract tamyiz
هي أكثر ذكاءً.	She is more intelligent.	With comparative
كفى بالله شهيدًا.	God suffices as a witness.	Quranic tamyiz
طاب المكان هواءً.	The place is pleasant in air.	Descriptive tamyiz

Common Mistakes

Wrong	Right	Why
Applying English grammar rules to this Arabic structure	Learning the specific Arabic patterns	Arabic has its own internal grammatical logic
Memorizing rules without practicing in context	Using this grammar point in sentences and conversations	Active production builds lasting understanding
Confusing this structure with similar Arabic patterns	Carefully noting the distinguishing features	Each Arabic grammar structure has specific triggers and conditions
Skipping this topic as "too advanced"	Building understanding gradually through exposure	Even partial understanding improves comprehension

Usage Notes

This B1-level topic is essential for intermediate Arabic proficiency. It appears regularly in formal speech, news, and written texts. In spoken dialects, the usage may be simplified, but understanding the MSA form is important for comprehensive Arabic skills.

Practice Tips

• Study examples of specification (tamyiz) in authentic Arabic texts appropriate for your level. Textbooks, graded readers, and Arabic media are excellent sources.
• Create your own sentences using this grammar point and verify them with a teacher or language partner.
• Focus on the most frequent patterns first and expand gradually.

Related Concepts

• Noun Cases (I'rab)