Derivational Adjectives in Semitic Languages: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Semitic languages are among the oldest known languages and include Arabic, Hebrew, and Syriac. They share phonological, morphological, and syntactic features, the most prominent of which is derivational morphology based on triliteral or quadriliteral roots. From these roots, a variety of derivatives emerge that express the agent, the object, adjectives, comparatives, verbal nouns, and other forms. This study focuses on the derivational adjectives in Semitic languages in terms of structure and meaning, highlighting similarities that indicate a common origin, such as the reliance on triliteral roots and shared patterns, as well as differences resulting from historical and social developments. Arabic stands out for the richness of its derivational system, whereas modern Hebrew shows reduced productivity of patterns, and Syriac preserves some forms. The study aims to demonstrate the relationship between structure and meaning and to highlight the role of derivatives in enriching the Semitic lexicon, confirming Arabic’s position as the most conservative and productive in derivation.