What Are Nouns?
Nouns are words that name people, places, things, or ideas. They are one of the basic building blocks of English grammar.
Types of Nouns
- Common Nouns: General names for things. Example: dog, city, book.
- Proper Nouns: Specific names that are always capitalized. Example: London, Einstein.
- Countable Nouns: Things you can count. Example: apple, chair.
- Uncountable Nouns: Things that cannot be counted. Example: water, information.
- Concrete Nouns: Things that can be seen or touched. Example: table, tree.
- Abstract Nouns: Ideas, feelings, or qualities. Example: happiness, freedom.
Examples of Nouns
Common Noun: The cat is sleeping.
Proper Noun: Emily loves chocolate.
Countable Noun: I have three pens.
Uncountable Noun: We need more milk.
What Are Articles?
Articles are words that define a noun as specific or unspecific. They are:
Types of Articles
- Definite Article: the – Refers to something specific. Example: The dog is barking.
- Indefinite Articles: a, an – Refer to something unspecific. Example: A dog is barking.
Rules for Using Articles
- Use a before words that begin with a consonant sound. Example: a car.
- Use an before words that begin with a vowel sound. Example: an apple.
- Use the when referring to a specific noun. Example: The sun is shining.
- Do not use articles with uncountable nouns in general contexts. Example: Water is essential for life.
Examples of Articles
Indefinite Article: I saw a bird in the tree.
Definite Article: The bird flew away.
Practice Exercises
- Identify the noun(s): "The car is in the garage." (Answer: car, garage)
- Choose the correct article: "I need ___ apple." (Answer: an)
- Write a sentence using a proper noun.
- Write a sentence using both a common noun and a definite article.