Words and expressions may convey ideas either by their explicit constructions or by implication. Meaning derived from the explicit aspect of words or expressions are referred to as mantooq, while those derived from their implications are called mafhoom.

Mantooq (explicit) meanings may be derived in five different ways, depending on the type of Arabic grammatical construction used.

This method of deriving the mantooq meaning refers to any expression which clearly indicates an idea, leaving no room for other interpretations; for example, the following verse orders those who intend hajj tamattu‘, but are unable to slaughter an animal:

The adjective (sifah) “complete” removes any doubt that ten meant approximately ten, according to figurative usage.

This term refers to the most obvious and likely meaning of a given expression which could indicate another, though less likely, meaning. An example of the thaahir can be found in the verse referring to the consumption of forbidden meats: