articles définis grammar in French

Language: French
Level: B1
Unit: Articles
Practice types: 0

What this grammar point covers

In French, 'articles définis' are words used before a noun to refer to a specific person or thing. They are similar to saying 'the' in English.

When to use it

Use articles définis in French when you are talking about something specific or already known to the listener. They are also used when talking about things in general, like categories or abstract concepts.

Key forms

le (masculine singular): le livre
la (feminine singular): la table
l’ (before a vowel or silent h): l’ami, l’hôtel
les (plural): les enfants

Examples

Le chat dort sur le canapé.

English: The cat is sleeping on the sofa.

La voiture est rouge.

English: The car is red.

L’école commence à huit heures.

English: The school starts at eight o’clock.

Les enfants jouent dans le jardin.

English: The children are playing in the garden.

Tips

Remember to match the article with the gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) of the noun.
Use 'l’' when the noun starts with a vowel or a silent h, no matter the gender.
Do not drop the article in French, even when talking about things in general (unlike in English).

Exceptions and edge cases

Some countries and regions do not use an article: for example, 'Israël', 'Monaco'.
With certain expressions, the article may be omitted (like after 'sans' in some cases).