From Arabic to First-Order Logic: A Formal Framework for Logic-Based Controlled Arabic

Natural language processing (NLP) is one of many AI applications that use logic-based techniques. A promising development in natural language processing is the development of controlled natural languages (CNLs). Using controlled natural languages, humans can communicate with intelligent machines naturally and simply. Currently, logic-based controlled Arabic (LBCA) is behind those for other natural languages in terms of quality. A lot of research is thus needed to improve them. This paper provides all the theoretical justifications needed to develop a logic-based controlled Arabic for knowledge representation, where Arabic texts can be translated to first-order logic (FOL). In this paper, we introduce a formalism and translation of Arabic expressions to first-order logic and discuss various exemplary applications. Such formalism and translation are presented here as a core design that would be useful for any individual or organization implementing a logic-based controlled Arabic. The theoretical justification we have indicated is that a good range of Arabic expressions is successfully translated to first-order logic as a pre-step towards automatic translation and ultimately developing a logic-based controlled Arabic for knowledge representation. In the future, logic-based controlled Arabic, in combination with appropriate controlled forms of rational argumentation, may serve as a communication layer between Arabic language users, especially Arab domain experts, and intelligent machines.