Language/English/Grammar/Indefinite-Article

Indefinite Article in English

Grammar Rules

When the countable noun is mentioned for the first time, you use an indefinite article a for words beginning with a consonant sound or an if the noun begins with a vowel sound. However, when a countable noun is mentioned for the second time, it is usually preceded by the definite article the.

E.g.

• I saw a (indefinite article) cat yesterday. The (definite article) cat was grey with black stripes.

• The girl was wearing a (indefinite article preceding word with a consonant sound “you”) uniform but it looked faded. The (definite article) uniform was old.

• I took an (indefinite article preceding word with a vowel sound “um”) umbrella as it was beginning to rain. It did not help because the (definite article) umbrella was faulty. I

Sometimes when uncountable nouns are treated as countable nouns, you can use the indefinite article.

E.g.

• Please select a wine that you like.

Sources

https://www.languagecouncils.sg/goodenglish/-/media/sgem/document/additional-sgem-resources/pdf/grammar-rules-_-speak-good-english-movement.pdf?la=en