English articles: a, an, the and zero article
Use a/an with a singular countable noun when it is not yet specific, the when the reference is identifiable in context, and no article in several general or uncountable uses. Learn the system through meaning and context rather than word-for-word translation.
Useful examples
1
I saw a dog. The dog was friendly.
I saw a dog. The dog was friendly.
2
She is an engineer.
She is an engineer.
3
Water is essential for life.
Water is essential for life.
Common mistakes
- Using a with uncountable nouns.
- Overusing the.
- Choosing a/an by spelling rather than sound.
Learn it better
- Check countability first.
- Contrast new vs already-known references.
- Choose a/an by the following sound.
Continue learning
Turn grammar into usable language
Read one topic, then apply the structure in JadoLearn practice and lessons.