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    Learn English > English lessons and exercises > English test #69729: Indefinite articles
    > Other English exercises on the same topic: Articles [Change theme]
    > Similar tests: - A/an - 'The' or nothing? - Countable nouns with a/an and some - Article The and geography - THE or NOTHING? - Article A or AN - Article 'the' / nothing - Articles a-an-the-Ø
    > Double-click on words you don't understand


    Indefinite articles


    ARTICLES

    In English language there are two (not three) articles viz. the definite article the and the indefinite article a or an.

    Uses of the indefinite article a and an

    The form 'a', is used with words beginning with consonant sound. For instance,

    a ball, a cat

    The form 'an' is used for words beginning with vowel sound. For instance,

    an elephant, an umbrella

    However there are some exceptions

    We always say,

    a union

    a university

    a unit

    a European

    a one-eyed man

    so also,

    an M.A.

    an honest man

    an honorable man

    We use 'a' or 'an' when we wish to refer to anything or not anything particular. On the other hand we use 'the' before a thing or a person when our listeners  know what or who we are talking about or because the thing or person has already been mentioned. Consider for instance the sentences—

    I met a boy yesterday. The (and not a ) boy I met yesterday is a budding genius.


    Now below is an exercise wherein you'll have to decide which of the two indefinite articles ( a or an)  is to be used. I f you feel that no article is necessary simply opt for  ( - ).





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    English exercise "Indefinite articles" created by sreedhar with The test builder. [More lessons & exercises from sreedhar]
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    1. I met European yesterday who seemed to be very amiable and charming in outlook.

    2. Would you like to join me for cup of tea at my humble bungalow?

    3. elephant is a mammoth animal.

    4. He is planning to go to university which is quite close to his place.

    5. The other day I met one-eyed man, which had me depressed the whole day.

    6. Teaching is not only a rewarding but also honourable profession.

    7. I always have tea here-this is my favourite restaurant.

    8. He has M.A. in English Literature. Wow ! He must have read a large number of books!

    9. It is highly desirable for one to be honest man.

    10. This is utopian idea ie, in other words, it is highly impracticable.










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