Understanding Articles in English

What is the difference between definite and indefinite articles?

• Definite articles are used for adjectives; indefinite articles are used for verbs.

• Definite articles are always plural; indefinite articles are always singular.

• Definite articles refer to specific nouns; indefinite articles refer to non-specific nouns.

• Definite articles are used only in questions; indefinite articles are used in statements.

Fill in the blank: I saw ___ elephant at the zoo.

• an

• the

• one

• some

Which article would you use in this sentence: She is ___ best player on the team?

• an

• the

• a

• some

Identify the articles in this sentence: The cat sat on a mat.

• The, an

• The, a

• The, the

• a, on

How do you form a question using an article?

• What is the book?

• Is the book?

• What book is it?

• Where is the book?