Even high level students tend to make frequent mistakes with articles. Students are often unsure whether to use an indefinite article or definite article, or whether to use a definite article or no article. Here are some rules to clarify:
Indefinite Article or Definite Article? Unknown and Known Nouns
When we introduce a noun for the first time, we use the indefinite articles, a or an.
If we have already referred to the noun, or if the noun is known, we use the definite article, the.
- It said on the news that a man had driven his car into a house. The man was treated for minor injuries, but the car was totally destroyed. No one in the house was harmed.
Definite Article or No Article? Specific and General Nouns
When we are referring to a plural or uncountable noun in general, we do not usually use articles.
- Medicine is a major expense in North America.
- Dolphins are intelligent animals.
- Patients must be helped.
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