Types of Articles – an Overview

Below you will find an overview of the types of articles in English and their basic usage.

1) Indefinite articles: a, an

Usage:
– before singular countable nouns, when you mention something for the first time and
when you’re not being specific.

Examples:
– I need to book a flight.
– He wants to deliver an exceptionally well-prepared presentation.

2) Definite article: the

Usage:
– before singular countable nouns, plural countable nouns and uncountable nouns when
you are being specific
– before singular countable nouns, when you are talking generally

Examples:
– The man sitting in the corner is my manager. (specific)
– We will work on the suggestions we generated in the meeting. (specific)
– The computer is an ever-changing machine. (general)

3) Zero article: (you don’t add anything before the noun)

Usage:

– before plural countable nouns, when you are talking generally
– before uncountable nouns, when you are talking generally

Examples:
– People are adaptable creatures.
– I need time and money.