<![CDATA[This study investigates the effectiveness of crossword puzzle–based instruction in enhancing Arabic synonym mastery among learners of Arabic as a foreign language. Synonym learning in Arabic often poses challenges due to semantic nuance and the dominance of memorization-oriented instructional practices. To address this issue, the study employed a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a pre-test–post-test approach involving 30 intermediate-level learners. The instructional intervention integrated crossword puzzles into regular vocabulary lessons to promote active recall, semantic association, and deeper lexical processing. Data were collected through vocabulary tests administered before and after the intervention and analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired-samples t-tests, and effect size measurement. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in learners’ post-test scores, with a very large effect size, indicating substantial gains in Arabic synonym mastery. The findings suggest that crossword puzzle–based instruction effectively supports lexical depth, vocabulary retention, and learner engagement. This study contributes to Arabic language pedagogy by demonstrating that crossword puzzles can function as a structured and meaningful instructional strategy for developing synonym competence beyond rote memorization.]]>
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