Articles with proper nouns

Singular proper nouns

Since singular proper nouns are already specific, they typically do not need an article:

Prime Minister Blair

Jamaica

Lake Huron

Mount Etna

Exceptions

There are many exceptions. In most cases, if the proper noun consists of a common noun with modifiers (adjectives or an of phrase), use the with the proper noun.

Example sentence with editing. Original sentence: We visited Great Wall of China last year. Revised sentence: We visited the Great Wall of China last year. Explanation: The article “the” has been inserted before the noun phrase “Great Wall of China.”

Plural proper nouns

The is used with most plural proper nouns:

the McGregors

the Bahamas

the Finger Lakes

the United States

Geographical names

Geographical names create problems because there are so many exceptions to the rules. When in doubt, consult the chart, check a dictionary, or ask a native speaker.

Using the with geographical nouns

Exercise: Using articles 1

Exercise: Using articles 2

Exercise: Using articles 3

Exercise: Articles and types of nouns