English grammar: Articles

What this grammar point covers

Articles are small words in English (a, an, the) used before nouns. They help show if we are talking about something specific or general.

When to use it

Use 'a' or 'an' for something not specific or mentioned for the first time. Use 'the' for something specific or already known.

Key forms

• 'a' (used before words that start with a consonant sound)
• 'an' (used before words that start with a vowel sound)
• 'the' (used for specific things or people)

Examples

Tips

• Use 'a' before words that start with a consonant sound (a dog, a house).
• Use 'an' before words that start with a vowel sound (an apple, an hour).
• Do not use 'a', 'an', or 'the' with most plural or uncountable nouns when talking in general (I like books, Water is important).

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some words start with a vowel letter but a consonant sound (a university, a European).
• Some words start with a silent 'h' and use 'an' (an hour, an honest man).