The document discusses the use of articles (a, an, the) in the English language. It explains that a and an are indefinite articles and the is the definite article. The choice between a and an is based on sound, using an with words beginning with vowel sounds. The definite article the is used (1) when already referring to a specific person or thing, (2) when a singular noun represents a whole class, and (3) before some proper names and unique things. The article can be omitted in some cases such as before uncountable nouns and plural nouns used generally.

1. Article

2. • If the noun is countable and singular it
must always be preceded by an/ a article
or some other determiner. There are two
articles ‘a’ or ‘an’ and ‘the’
Article
Indefinite Definite
Article Article

3. • Indefinite article : It usually leaves indefinite the
person or thing spoken of.
• Definite : It points out some particular person or
thing.
A/an
The choice between ‘a’ and ‘an’ is determined by
sound. Before a word beginning with a vowel
sound ‘an’ is used.

4. • an enemy, an ink stand, an orange, an
umbrella, an hour, an honest man.
• 2. Before a word beginning with a consonant sound ‘a’ is
used.
a boy, a woman, a university, a European, a useful
article.
3. In its original numerical sense of one
Twelve inches make a foot.
A word to the wise is sufficient.
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

5. Use of the definite article
• 1.When we talk about particular person or thing,
or already referred to (that is when it is clear
from the context which one we mean)
The book you want is on sale.
The girl cried.
let us go to the park.

6. • When singular noun is meant to represent
a whole class.
The cow is a useful animal.
The horse is a noble animal.
The rose is the sweetest of all
flowers.

7. • 3. Before some proper names.
The pacific, The black sea, The Ganga,
The Nile, the Sahara.
4. Before the names of things unique of their
kind.
the sun, the sky, the sea, the ocean.

8. • 5. Before the name of certain books.
The Bible, the Quran, the puranas.
6. With Superlatives.
This is the best book for English
grammar.
Solomon was the wisest king.

9. • With Ordinals.
He was the first man to arrive.
The third chapter of the book is very
easy.
Omission of the Article
Before names of substances abstract
nouns.

10. • Sugar is bad for your teeth.
Gold is precious metal.
Wisdom is the gift of heaven.
Honesty is the best policy.
2.Before plural countable nouns used in general
sense.
Children like chocolates.
Computers are used in many offices.

11. • Before languages.
We are studying English.
They speak Punjabi at home.
Thank You !