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Anonymous Posted 20 years ago
Grammar

Article usage

Hi,

Although I try to augment my study of article usage by reading books and the like, but leaves me with some difficulties. Appreciated if take time to help.

1) I speak good English.

Why not, "I speak a good English."?

2) I have seen a good many examples.

Why not, "I have seen good many examples."?

3) New Zealand has tropical/temperate climate.

Why not, "New Zealand has a tropical/temperate climate."?
  

Top answer

Hi, 1) You don't say 'I speak a English' do you? So just adding an adjective 'good' doesn't alter this. 2) Ok, I'll try not to confuse you too much on this one.

  • Hi, 1) You don't say 'I speak a English' do you?
  • So just adding an adjective 'good' doesn't alter this.
  • 2) Ok, I'll try not to confuse you too much on this one.
  • There is a phrase 'a good many' which means 'a lot'.
  • It has no connection with 'good' in its usual sense.
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1 Answers
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Hi,

1) You don't say 'I speak a English' do you? So just adding an adjective 'good' doesn't alter this.

2) Ok, I'll try not to confuse you too much on this one. There is a phrase 'a good many' which means 'a lot'. It has no connection with 'good' in its usual sense. This sentence means that I have seen a lot of examples. The word order helps you work out the meaning. remember th

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