mithal

Mithal is a term used in Urdu, Persian, and Arabic to denote an example, model, or parable. It is derived from the Arabic word mathal (مثل), meaning likeness or illustration. In South Asian languages, misaal (مثال) is the more common form for “example,” while mithal or mathal represents transliterations of the same root. The usage of these forms varies by language and region, but all convey the sense of an illustration or standard by which something is compared.

In literature and rhetoric, mithal is used to present a comparison, to offer an exemplary instance, or to refer to a proverbial model. Phrases such as “yeh mithal hai” (this is an example) appear in Urdu prose and poetry, reflecting the role of the term as a unit of illustration or guidance. The concept also appears in classical and religious texts as a parable or instructive example.

As a surname, Mithal appears among South Asian communities, including families of Indian and Pakistani origin. The name is attested in various records and may be found in different spellings depending on transliteration and regional practices.

See also: misaal, mathal, mathaal; linguistic variations of the same root.