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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar
"Born to be king" vs "born to be a king" - indefinite article missing
Other examples:
He wanted to die in battle.
It's good to be king.
I know they sound right but i don't know how to explain why there is no indefinite article in front of "battle", "king" etc.
I suppose sentences with the indefinite article would be grammatically correct. The meaning would be different, though.
Any suggestions?
He wanted to die in battle.
It's good to be king.
I know they sound right but i don't know how to explain why there is no indefinite article in front of "battle", "king" etc.
I suppose sentences with the indefinite article would be grammatically correct. The meaning would be different, though.
Any suggestions?
Top answer
Without the article, the noun refers to an abstract condition or situation, not an instance.
- Without the article, the noun refers to an abstract condition or situation, not an instance.
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2 Answers
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Without the article, the noun refers to an abstract condition or situation, not an instance.
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That's more or less how I personally understand it. However, I need to find a more elaborate explanation (perhaps a more descriptive one) as I have to explain the subtle difference to some less advanced speakers of English. Additional examples are welcome.
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