A1noun1K

Article

UK /["/ˈɑːtɪkl/"]/US /["/ˈɑːrtɪkl/"]/

Definition

a piece of writing about a particular subject in a newspaper or magazine, on a website, etc.

In simple words: A word used to show whether something is specific or general, like 'the' or 'a'.

Examples

  • The article in the magazine provided fascinating insights into wildlife conservation.
  • She wrote an article for her school newspaper about local events.
  • In grammar class, we learned about how to use definite and indefinite articles correctly.
  • An article is an essential element in many languages to indicate specificity.
  • The article discussed the importance of education in today's society.

Usage notes

Use 'a' before consonant sounds and 'an' before vowel sounds. 'The' is used for specific items. Avoid using articles with plural nouns when speaking generally.

Grammar pattern

article + noun

Memory hint

Think of an 'art' gallery where each piece is labeled with 'a' or 'the'.

Collocations

  • brilliant
  • excellent
  • fascinating
  • series
  • author
  • co-author
  • do
  • appear
  • contain something
  • feature something
  • in an/​the article
  • article about
  • article on
  • an article called something
  • an article entitled something
  • an article headed something
  • key
  • be in breach of
  • breach
  • contravene
  • provide something
  • specify something
  • state something
  • under an/​the article
  • the terms of an article
  • finished
  • the genuine
  • offending
  • make
  • manufacture
  • produce
  • an article of clothing
  • definite
  • indefinite
  • take

Synonyms

  • item

Antonyms

  • nonsensical text
  • unwritten material

Common mistakes

  • Using 'the' when referring to something general.
  • Confusing 'a' with 'an'.
  • Omitting articles in front of singular nouns.