Articles - A, An, and The

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

What is the difference between 'a' and 'an'?

Back

'A' is used before words that begin with a consonant sound, while 'an' is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Front

When do we use 'the'?

Back

'The' is used to refer to a specific noun that is known to the reader or listener.

Front

Give an example of a sentence using 'a'.

Back

I saw a cat in the garden.

Front

Give an example of a sentence using 'an'.

Back

She wants to eat an apple.

Front

Give an example of a sentence using 'the'.

Back

The sun is shining brightly.

Front

What article would you use before 'hour'?

Back

You would use 'an' because 'hour' starts with a vowel sound.

Front

What article would you use before 'unicorn'?

Back

You would use 'a' because 'unicorn' starts with a 'yoo' sound, which is a consonant sound.

Front

What is the rule for using 'a' or 'an' with acronyms?

Back

Use 'a' or 'an' based on the sound that the acronym starts with. For example, 'a UFO' and 'an FBI agent'.

Front

What article would you use before 'elephant'?

Back

You would use 'an' because 'elephant' starts with a vowel sound.