A ,an, and the usage

Question

Hi,I know that "a" and "an" are used for countable nouns to tell one piece of item."the" is used for to tell one particular item.I wonder whether I have to use "a" or "an"? for instance,I started working at telecom companyI started working at a telecom companywhich one is correct or in the meaning what makes difference?Thanks

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

.
This one is correct: I started working at a telecom company. The other is no good.
.

Sunsail · Answer

hi,
why is this correct? could you please explain
Thanks

Mister Micawber · Answer

.

"a" and "an" are used for countable nouns

Sunsail · Answer

Well,
strange, there is a commercial on tv.I watch it everyday ? I am little bit confused

additionally,do I always have to use "a" or "an" ? or is there times I shouldnot use

Thanks

Mister Micawber · Answer

.
It is possible if 'Telecom' is the name of the company -- 'I started working at Telecom Company, Ltd -- but more likely the article is just unstressed and difficult to perceive.

A or an is used before all singular countable nouns except those preceded by demonstrative adjectives (this, that) and possessive adjectives (his, my, etc.)
.

Sunsail · Answer

Hi,
It is not the name of the company.I am 100% sure of it.

how is it understood? if it is said," at a telecom company"?

thanks

Mister Micawber · Answer

.
He works at an unnamed company in the telecommunications industry.
.

Sunsail · Answer

so commercial makes a grammer mistake apparently,right? which native english speaking suprise when they hear or this commercial cannot be published in UK /USA

Mister Micawber · Answer

.
I am still unconvinced that the article is missing from the soundtrack. In any case, poor grammar is no grounds for refusing its importation-- the UK and the USA have plenty of homegrown grammar problems.
.

A ,an, and the usage

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

"a" and "an" are used for countable nouns

Related Questions