# the

/ˈðə/ (US) · /ðə/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Article

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/the
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

Used before a noun to point to a specific person or thing that you already know about. It shows you mean one particular item, not just any.

For teachers: An English definite article placed before a noun to indicate that the referent is unique, specific, or already identifiable within the context of the discourse.

## Examples

- Please pass me the salt.
- After looking at several different cars, we finally decided to buy the blue one.
- The decision to implement the new policy was met with significant resistance from the local community, who felt the changes were too sudden.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I am going to the school to study." but "I am going to school to study." — When referring to the primary purpose of an institution like 'school', 'hospital', or 'prison', the definite article is omitted.

## Usage notes

- Placed before a noun or an adjective-noun phrase. It is used with both singular and plural nouns, as well as uncountable nouns when referring to a specific instance.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.