Exploring Collocational Patterns and Lexical Semantics in Surah Yusuf

Abstract

This study aims to identify, classify, and analyze collocational patterns in Surah Yusuf and to examine their semantic roles. The method employed is a descriptive qualitative approach using manual concordance analysis, in which data were extracted through close, word by word reading of the Arabic Qur'anic Text of Surah Yusuf. Identified collocations were verified using the Quranic Arabic Corpus to confirm their morphological and syntactic structure, and cross checked against Arabic collocation dictionaries to ensure linguistic validity. Data were analyzed based on collocation types (grammatical and lexical) and the semantic patterns of the accompanying prepositions. The findings reveal 36 collocational patterns, dominated by grammatical verb collocations (26 patterns), particularly those using fiʿl māḍī (past tense verbs). Prepositions such as عَنْ (for avoidance), إِلَى (for direction), and عَلَى (for authority) form consistent semantic constructions that enhance narrative nuances. In-depth analysis of key collocations, such as رَاوَدَ عَنْ and صَبْرٌ جَمِيْلٌ, shows that collocational choices do not merely serve descriptive functions but actively shape character development, dramatic tension, and core theological concepts. The study concludes that collocational analysis is an essential tool for uncovering complex layers of meaning in the Qur'an. These findings make a significant contribution to Qur'anic linguistics and exegesis by offering a systematic and replicable model for analyzing other surahs. The research also has practical implications for translation, the development of Arabic language learning materials, and digital humanities.