Difference between "a" and "the"
Hi, I have quick question about the use of "a" vs. "the" in the following sentences:
A doctor has the responsibility of helping the elderly.
The dolphin is an intelligent mammal.
What I'm confused about is why we use "a" in one sentence, and "the" in the other...? Can someone please clearly explain what causes there to be a difference in the usage of these two articles? I know there are several rules about when to use "a/an" and "the," but I'm interested only in the specific usage in these two sentences. Thank you.
Top answer
The definite article is common with biological species used as the subject of a sentence: The cheetah is a fast animal. ) But: I saw a cheetah yesterday. Also: The rose is a beautiful flower.
- The definite article is common with biological species used as the subject of a sentence: The cheetah is a fast animal.
- ) But: I saw a cheetah yesterday.
- Also: The rose is a beautiful flower.
- A doctor isn't a species.
- CB
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The definite article is common with biological species used as the subject of a sentence: The cheetah is a fast animal. (= All cheetas are fast animals.) But: I saw a cheetah yesterday. Also: The rose is a beautiful flower.
A doctor isn't a species.
CB
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