Articles in English Grammar | Open Gateway Tamil

Articles in English Grammar

What are Articles?

Articles are words used before nouns to define whether the noun is specific or non-specific. There are two types of articles in English: Definite Article and Indefinite Article.

Types of Articles

1. Definite Article: `the`

The definite article "the" is used to refer to specific nouns that are known to the speaker and the listener.

Examples:

The sun rises in the east.
Please close the door.
The book on the table is mine.

2. Indefinite Articles: `a` and `an`

The indefinite articles "a" and "an" are used to refer to non-specific nouns. The choice between "a" and "an" depends on the sound of the following word:

"a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.
"an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Examples:

I saw a dog in the park.
She is an artist.
He bought an orange from the market.

Rules for Using Articles

Use "the" for unique objects: The moon, the Earth, the Taj Mahal.
Use "a" or "an" when mentioning something for the first time: I saw a cat.
Use "the" when referring to something specific or already mentioned: The cat was sleeping.
Do not use articles with uncountable nouns in general contexts: Water is essential for life.
Do not use articles with proper nouns: She lives in India.

Common Errors with Articles

Incorrect: She is an unique person.
Correct: She is a unique person. ("unique" begins with a consonant sound)
Incorrect: He bought the apple. (when referring to any apple)
Correct: He bought an apple.
Incorrect: I have the homework to do.
Correct: I have homework to do. ("homework" is uncountable)

Quick Reference Table

Article	Usage	Example
a	Used before singular, countable nouns starting with a consonant sound.	A boy, a car, a university
an	Used before singular, countable nouns starting with a vowel sound.	An apple, an hour, an elephant
the	Used before specific or unique nouns, or nouns mentioned previously.	The sun, the book, the Eiffel Tower