Articles

Front

What is an article in English grammar?

Back

An article is a word that defines a noun as specific or unspecific. The two types of articles are definite (the) and indefinite (a, an).

Front

What is the difference between definite and indefinite articles?

Back

Definite articles refer to a specific noun (e.g., 'the book'), while indefinite articles refer to a non-specific noun (e.g., 'a book' or 'an apple').

Front

When do you use 'a' versus 'an'?

Back

'A' is used before words that begin with a consonant sound, while 'an' is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using the indefinite article 'a'.

Back

I saw a dog in the park.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using the indefinite article 'an'.

Back

She wants to eat an orange.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using the definite article 'the'.

Back

The cat is sleeping on the sofa.

Front

When should you use 'the' before a noun?

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using articles with plural nouns?

Back

Indefinite articles ('a' and 'an') are not used with plural nouns. Use 'the' if referring to specific plural nouns.

Front

Can you use articles with uncountable nouns?

Back

Yes, 'the' can be used with uncountable nouns to refer to specific instances (e.g., 'the water in the glass'). Indefinite articles are not used.

Front

What is a zero article?

Back

A zero article is the absence of an article before a noun, often used with plural and uncountable nouns when speaking generally (e.g., 'Cats are friendly').