How to Use Articles (a/an/the) - El Mutaalim Academy _ اكاديمية المتعلم

 Definition Of articles:

The Articles are very important term for English learners. Articles many times are asked in competitive exams, such as SSC, CAT, MAT, CDS, LIC, and other exams.
"An", "A", and "The" are words which called articles. We use them before the noun to show whether it refers to something general or specific.

There are two types of articles. Indefinite articles (a-an) which is ensure, and Definite articles (the) which is sure.
 

Using Of Articles:

          Indefinite articles A/AN:

We use "a" or "an":

1- Before singular pronouns when we present new information.

Example:

             _  I bought a new car.

 

2- "an" is used to mean anything or anyone, it doesn't matter which one.

Example:

             _ I need a pen, please.

             _ I need an article.

          Definite articles "The":

We use article "the" for the following cases:

1- Before singular pronoun when we talk about something familiar.

Example:

           _   There is a letter on the desk. The letter is from your father.

2- Before plural pronouns. 

Example:

        _ a book.  >>  The books.

3- When it's clear what you are talking about.

 

Example:

      _I put your books in the library.

4- When there is only one.

Example:

      _ The sun   _ The city center.

5- Before some geographical futures.

Example:

     _ The Alps.   _The Atlas mountains.

6- Before superlatives.

Example: 

      _ The best.   _ The most expensive.

        Zero Article "Ø" :

We use zero article :

 1- We don't use articles before cities and countries.

Example:

        _ I live in Ø England.

 

2- Before countable and uncountable nouns when talking in general.

Example:
_ Ø Milk is good for health.
_ Ø Oranges are rich in vitamin C.