Flashcard on Articles

Front

What is an article in English grammar?

Back

An article is a word that defines a noun as specific or unspecific. The two types of articles are definite (the) and indefinite (a, an).

Front

When do we use 'the' as a definite article?

Back

We use 'the' to refer to specific nouns that are known to the reader or listener, such as 'the sun' or 'the president.'

Front

When do we use 'a' as an indefinite article?

Back

We use 'a' before singular nouns that begin with a consonant sound, such as 'a cat' or 'a dog.'

Front

When do we use 'an' as an indefinite article?

Back

We use 'an' before singular nouns that begin with a vowel sound, such as 'an apple' or 'an hour.'

Front

What is the rule for using articles with proper nouns?

Back

Proper nouns usually do not take articles, but some can, such as 'the United States' or 'the Himalayas.'

Front

What is the difference between countable and uncountable nouns in relation to articles?

Back

Countable nouns can take both 'a/an' and 'the,' while uncountable nouns typically only take 'the' when referring to specific instances.

Front

How do we use articles with plural nouns?

Back

We generally do not use 'a' or 'an' with plural nouns, but we can use 'the' to refer to specific groups, such as 'the dogs in the park.'

Front

What is a zero article?

Back

A zero article is when no article is used before a noun, often with plural or uncountable nouns when speaking generally, e.g., 'Dogs are friendly.'

Front

How do articles function in sentences?

Back

Articles help clarify whether we are talking about something specific or something general, influencing the meaning of the sentence.

Front

What is the article usage rule for geographical names?

Back

We use 'the' with names of rivers, seas, oceans, and mountain ranges, e.g., 'the Nile,' 'the Atlantic Ocean,' 'the Himalayas.'