Articles: a, an and the

What you'll learn

Articles come before a noun:

• a small dog
• an old bike
• the blue bag

Use a/an for one new or non-specific thing. Use the when we know which person or thing we mean.

Start with a short story

• I see a dog.
• The dog is very small.

First, we say a dog because it is new information. Then we say the dog because we now know which dog.

Use a or an

Use a/an with one singular countable noun when it is not specific.

• She bought a red dress.
• He has an interesting job.
• I need a clean shirt.

Choose a or an from the first sound:

• a new phone
• an old umbrella

Use the

Use the when the listener can identify the person or thing.

• Close the door, please.
• Can you pass me the small bowl?
• Where is the bus stop?

Use the when you mention something again.

• I bought a sandwich. The sandwich was very good.

Article + adjective + noun

The article comes first.

article + adjective + noun

• a tall man
• an old castle
• the large window

Common mistakes

• a red shoes → red shoes / some red shoes
• new a phone → a new phone
• an university → a university
• Put it on table. → Put it on the table.

Quick check

• I need ___ umbrella. → an
• Please close ___ window next to you. → the
• She has ___ blue bike. → a

Next step

Learn how to make singular nouns plural.