We use "a/an" with singular countable nouns. It is used to mention something for the first time, or to say that the thing is one of a number of things.
- I've got a skateboard. (mention something for the first time). It is a homemade skateboard. (the thing is one of a number of things)
- She has a sister. (mention something for the first time)
We use articles "a/an" to mention someone's profession.
- I am a professor.
- She is an engineer.
We use "a" before a consonant sound and we use "an" before a vowel sound.
- He's an artist.
- It is a German car.
The
We use "the" with countable (singular and plural) nouns and uncountable nouns. We use it to refer to something or somebody previously mentioned. (Compare to "a/an" above).
- I've got a skateboard. The skateboard was a birthday present from a penfriend.
- They need a house. The house must be big enough for the whole family.
We use "the" talk about specific things or people.
- The restaurant we went to last night was horrible.
- Do you remember the gift I got from Mom for my birthday?
We use "the" to talk about something "unique".
- The government should promote the local products. (There is only one government in a country)
- The world is facing a serious problem. (There is only one world or I am referring to the one we are living in)
No Articles
We do not use an article when we are talking about people or things in general.
- I like oranges.
- People are sometimes selfish.
- Education is very important in the world.
- I love drinking tea in the afternoon.
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