The definite article in English is the word “the.” It is used before singular and plural nouns to indicate that the noun refers to something specific, known, or previously mentioned. Unlike the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” which refer to any one of something, “the” refers to a particular item or group that both the speaker and listener can identify.
How to Use the Definite Article
- Use the when talking about something specific or unique.
- Use the when the noun has already been mentioned.
- Use the when the noun is defined by a phrase or clause.
- Use the with superlatives and ordinal numbers.
- Use the with names of certain places or things (e.g., the Amazon, the Eiffel Tower).
Examples
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The book on the table is mine. | Refers to a specific book that both speaker and listener can identify. |
| She went to the cinema last night. | Refers to a specific cinema known in the context. |
| The tallest building in the city is impressive. | Uses the superlative “tallest” to specify a particular building. |
| The first person to arrive wins a prize. | Uses the ordinal number “first” to specify a particular person. |
| The Amazon is the longest river in the world. | Refers to a unique, well-known geographical feature. |
Practice Tips
- Ask yourself: “Can my listener identify this noun?” If yes, use the.
- Remember that “the” can be used with singular, plural, and uncountable nouns.
- Pay attention to context to decide if a noun is general (no article or “a/an”) or specific (“the”).
What question can you ask yourself to decide if you should use the definite article “the”?
Can my listener identify this noun?
If the listener can identify the noun as something specific or known, then the definite article “the” should be used. If not, the noun might take no article or an indefinite article.
Summary
The definite article “the” is a small but powerful word that helps us be clear and precise in our communication. It signals that the noun is specific and identifiable, making our meaning exact and our sentences easy to understand.
Can “the” be used with both singular and plural nouns in the same way?
Yes, as long as the noun is specific and identifiable
“The” is the same in both singular and plural forms and is always used to specify something known or previously mentioned.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
