Using #em#the#/em# with most specific common nouns

The definite article the is used with most nouns—both count and noncount—that the reader can identify specifically. Usually the identity will be clear to the reader for one of the following reasons.

1. The noun has been previously mentioned.

The article A is used before truck when the noun is first mentioned. When the noun is mentioned again, it needs the article the because readers can now identify which truck skidded.

2. A phrase or clause following the noun restricts its identity.

The phrase on his desk identifies the specific computer.

NOTE:Descriptive adjectives do not necessarily make a noun specific. A specific noun is one that readers can identify within a group of nouns of the same type.

The reader cannot identify which specific brand-new bright red sports car the writer will buy. Even though car has many adjectives in front of it, it is a general noun in this sentence, so the correct article is a.

3. A superlative adjective such as best or most intelligent makes the noun’s identity specific.

The superlative tallest makes the noun boy specific. Although there might be several tall boys, only one boy can be the tallest.

4. The noun describes a unique person, place, or thing.

There is only one sun in our solar system, so its identity is clear.

5. The context or situation makes the noun’s identity clear.

Both the speaker and the listener know which door is meant.

6. The noun is singular and refers to a scientific class or category of items (most often animals, musical instruments, and inventions).

The writer is referring to the assembly line as an invention.

Choosing articles for common nouns

Exercise: Using articles 1

Exercise: Using articles 2

Exercise: Using articles 3

Exercise: Articles and types of nouns

Related topic:

Comparative and superlative forms

superlative form The form of an adjective or adverb that expresses a comparison among three or more things (hardest, most carefully).