The Definite The Definite ArticleArticle

A noun be said to A noun be said to have a unique have a unique referentreferent Special adjective as a modifier

Special Noun: refer to unique time or place in our common

existence

Generic, that is, it may be refer to an entire species or a single type of something

Previously mentioned noun

Following modifier

Only one tallest buildingOnly one tallest building

the United States, the Soviet Unionthe United States, the Soviet Union

the Hawker Siddeley Harrier is one of the best present-day VTOL aircraftthe Hawker Siddeley Harrier is one of the best present-day VTOL aircraft

The growth of the American garment industry was made by Issaac singer’s improvementThe growth of the American garment industry was made by Issaac singer’s improvement

Shared knowledge between reader Shared knowledge between reader and writerand writer

Special AdjectivesSpecial Adjectives

Special NounsSpecial Nouns

GenericsGenerics

Previous MentionPrevious Mention

Modifiers Following the Modifiers Following the NounNoun

Shared KnowledgeShared Knowledge

Implied UniquenessImplied Uniqueness

A Flowchart for ArticlesA Flowchart for Articles