Rule 1: a / an for one thing that's new or not specific
I bought a car. (one car, not a particular one) · She's an engineer.
Rule 2: an before a vowel sound
It's about sound, not spelling: an hour (silent h), a university (sounds like "you").
Rule 3: the when both people know which one
Can you close the door? (we both know which door) · I bought a car. The car is blue. (now we know which one)
Rule 4: no article for general plurals and uncountable nouns
Coffee is popular in Melbourne. · Dogs make great pets. · Honesty matters.
Rule 5: the with some place names
The* United Kingdom, the Pacific Ocean, the Great Barrier Reef. But no article for most countries, cities and streets: Australia, Sydney, George Street*.
Quick quiz
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Frequently asked questions
When do you use 'a' or 'an'?
Use a/an for one thing mentioned for the first time: a/an depends on the sound (a university, an hour).
When do you use 'the'?
For something specific or already mentioned: the bank on King Street, the report I sent.
When is there no article?
With general plural or uncountable nouns (I like coffee) and most names of people, cities and countries.