Articles are words that define a noun as specific or unspecific. In English, there are two types of articles: the definite article and the indefinite articles. Understanding when and how to use them depends on both grammar and pronunciation rules.
Articles are a type of determiner - words placed before nouns to clarify which thing or how many things we're talking about.
When to use it: Use "the" when referring to a specific noun that is known to the speaker and listener. This could be because it has already been mentioned, is unique, or is defined by context.
Examples:
Pronunciation tip: "The" is pronounced as /ðə/ before a consonant sound (e.g. the cat), and as /ðiː/ before a vowel sound (e.g. the apple).
When to use it: Use "a" before a singular, countable noun that begins with a consonant *sound* and is not specific.
Examples:
Note: Use "a" based on sound, not spelling. For example, we say "a university" because "university" starts with a consonant sound.
When to use it: Use "an" before a singular, countable noun that begins with a vowel *sound* and is not specific.
Examples:
Note: Use "an" based on pronunciation. Words like "honest" take "an" because they start with a vowel sound, even if the first letter is a consonant.