Lesson

A/an & the

Basic article usage

≈ 15 min 8 block(s)

Text

A/an & the

This lesson explains how to use the English articles: the indefinite articles (a, an) and the definite article (the). Articles help show whether we are mentioning something for the first time, referring to something specific, or talking about things in general.

  • Use 'a' or 'an' with singular, countable nouns when introducing something for the first time.
  • Use 'an' before words that begin with a vowel sound; use 'a' before consonant sounds.
  • Use 'the' when referring to a specific item, something already mentioned, or something unique.

Table

Definite and Indefinite Articles

Article Use Example
a Indefinite article before singular nouns starting with a consonant sound I need a copy of the contract.
an Indefinite article before singular nouns starting with a vowel sound She is an experienced accountant.
the Definite article for specific or previously mentioned items The report you requested is ready.
no article Used with plural or uncountable nouns when speaking generally Employees value feedback. / We need information.

Tip

Key rule summary

Remember these core ideas when choosing articles:

  • 'a' / 'an' = one, any single item (use 'an' before vowel sounds).
  • 'the' = a specific item or something already known to the listener.
  • No article for plural/uncountable nouns when speaking in general terms.

Sound, not spelling, decides 'a' vs 'an' (e.g., an hour, a university).

Example

Examples in context

I need a copy of the contract.

She is an experienced accountant.

The report you requested is ready.

Please send the invoice to the client.

Tip

Common mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors learners make with articles:

  • Omitting 'a' or 'an' before a singular, countable noun: 'I need ___ pen.'
  • Using 'a' before a vowel sound or 'an' before a consonant sound (sound vs spelling).
  • Overusing 'the' with general plural or uncountable nouns: 'The employees are motivated' vs 'Employees are motivated.'
  • Using articles with proper nouns or names where they are not needed: 'the Microsoft' is usually wrong.
  • Confusing when to omit an article with professions, titles, or uncountable nouns.

Ask: Is the noun singular and new? Is it specific? Is it uncountable or plural in general?

Quiz

Choose the correct sentence:

Hint: Think about introducing a single, non-specific item.

Quiz

Complete: She is _____ experienced consultant.

Hint: Think about the sound at the start of the next word.

Quiz

Choose the correct sentence:

Hint: Consider whether the noun is countable or uncountable.

Key Points

GrammarPoint

article

noun CEFR B1 //ˈɑːrtɪkəl//

A word (a, an, the) used with a noun to indicate specificity or generality.

Choose the correct article for each sentence.

GrammarPoint

indefinite article

noun phrase CEFR B1 //ˌɪndɪˈfɪnɪt//

The articles 'a' and 'an' used for non-specific singular items.

I spoke to an applicant about the role.

GrammarPoint

definite article

noun phrase CEFR B1 //dɪˈfɪnɪt//

The article 'the' used to refer to a specific or known item.

The manager approved the budget.

GrammarPoint

countable noun

noun CEFR B1 //ˈkaʊntəbl̩ ˈnaʊn//

A noun that can be counted (one item, two items).

We ordered three chairs for the meeting room.

GrammarPoint

uncountable

adjective CEFR B2 //ʌnˈkaʊntəbl̩//

Describes nouns that are not counted (e.g., information, advice).

We received useful information from the client.

GrammarPoint

vowel sound

noun phrase CEFR B2 //ˈvaʊəl saʊnd//

A sound that determines whether to use 'a' or 'an' (e.g., hour begins with a vowel sound).

We said 'an hour' because 'hour' starts with a vowel sound.