The (Definite Article)
Use 'the' when it is clear which specific thing you mean — because it was already mentioned, is unique, or is known from the situation.
Level A2
Articles
Summary
- Use 'the' when it is clear which specific thing you mean — because it was already mentioned, is unique, or is known from the situation.
Structure
the + singular, plural, or uncountable noun
Examples
- I bought a car. The car is red.
- The sun rises in the east.
- Please close the door.
- She is the best student in the class.
Common mistakes
- • Don't use 'the' for general plurals: NOT 'I like the dogs' (in general) → 'I like dogs.'
- • Don't omit 'the' with unique things: NOT 'Moon is bright' → 'The moon is bright.'
More articles
A / An (Indefinite Article)
A1
Use 'a' or 'an' before singular countable nouns when you mention something for the first time or talk about it in a general, non-specific way. Use 'a' before a consonant sound and 'an' before a vowel sound.
Zero Article (No Article)
A2
Use no article with plural and uncountable nouns when talking generally, and with most names of people, countries, meals, languages, and abstract ideas.
Quantifiers and Articles Review: A / An / The / Zero
B1
Choose between a/an (one of many, first mention), the (specific or known), and no article (general plural/uncountable) depending on whether the noun is specific and countable.