What is a Makhraj?
Points of articulation for correct pronunciation of letters: 5 main regions and 17 articulation points.
Makhraj (plural makhārij) is the place where the sound of a letter is produced/originates. It is the foundation for pronouncing letters correctly and for distinguishing them from one another.
5 Main Regions
- al-Jawf (the oral-pharyngeal cavity): the long vowel letters ا و ي.
- al-Ḥalq (the throat): ء ه ع ح غ خ.
- al-Lisān (the tongue): the broadest region; 18 letters, 10 articulation points.
- al-Shafatān (the lips): ف ب م و.
- al-Khayshūm (the nasal cavity): ghunnah — the nasal component of ن and م.
How Many Articulation Points?
According to the most well-known and preferred view (Ibn al-Jazarī), these 5 regions contain a total of 17 distinct makhārij. Sībawayhi counted 16, while al-Farrāʾ counted 14.
You can view the letters according to this classification by sorting the Arabic keyboard on our dictionary page by "Makhraj."
This article is for informational purposes. Back to library