the
Pronunciation
Article
A1 Beginner
Quick answer
Used before a specific noun that both the speaker and listener already know or have mentioned.
Usage notes
"The" points to one particular thing rather than any example of it. Compare "I saw a dog" (any dog) with "I saw the dog" (a specific dog you both know about).
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Please close _____ door when you leave."
Answer: the
In your own words, what does "the" mean?
Used before a specific noun that both the speaker and listener already know or have mentioned.
Learn next at A1
- theater A building where plays, shows, or films are performed or shown.
- their Belonging to more than one other person or thing already mentioned.
- them Used to talk about two or more people or things already mentioned, as...
- then At that time, or next in a sequence of events.
- there In or at that place, referring to somewhere other than here.
- these A word used to point to more than one thing that is close to you.