Articles the/a/an/-

Front

What are articles in English grammar?

Back

Articles are words that define a noun as specific or unspecific. The two types of articles are definite (the) and indefinite (a, an).

Front

When do we use the definite article 'the'?

Back

We use 'the' when referring to a specific noun that is known to the reader or listener.

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When do we use the indefinite article 'a'?

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We use 'a' before singular nouns that begin with a consonant sound and refer to a non-specific item.

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When do we use the indefinite article 'an'?

Back

We use 'an' before singular nouns that begin with a vowel sound and refer to a non-specific item.

Front

What is the rule for using articles with plural nouns?

Back

Generally, plural nouns do not take an article when speaking in general terms. For specific plural nouns, 'the' is used.

Front

How do you determine whether to use 'a' or 'an'?

Back

Use 'a' before words that begin with a consonant sound and 'an' before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Front

What is the article usage with uncountable nouns?

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Uncountable nouns typically use 'the' when referring to something specific, but do not use 'a' or 'an'.

Front

Can you give an example of a sentence using 'the' correctly?

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Yes, 'The sun rises in the east.' Here, 'the' specifies a particular sun.

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Can you give an example of a sentence using 'a' correctly?

Back

Yes, 'I saw a dog in the park.' Here, 'a' refers to any dog, not a specific one.

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Can you give an example of a sentence using 'an' correctly?

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Yes, 'She is an engineer.' Here, 'an' refers to any engineer, not a specific one.