Why an article is omitted?
Hello, can someone explain why there is no definite article before "Saudi-supplied arms" in the sentence below (The Economist magazine):
Weapons-smuggling is rife; particularly, says a diplomat, of Saudi-supplied arms.
From my understanding Arms is an uncountable plural noun. However we are not talking about arms in general, but particular Saudi-supplied arms. So, shouldn't there be the definite THE article in front of Saudi-supplied?
Thanks
Top answer
It refers to any Saudi-supplied arms. 'Saudi-supplied' is no more particular than 'blue' in 'blue cars': I like blue cars.
- It refers to any Saudi-supplied arms.
- 'Saudi-supplied' is no more particular than 'blue' in 'blue cars': I like blue cars.
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It refers to any Saudi-supplied arms. 'Saudi-supplied' is no more particular than 'blue' in 'blue cars': I like blue cars.
0If indeed it is talking about particular Saudi-supplied arms, previously mentioned or otherwise known to the reader, then there should be a definite article. As written, it means Saudi-supplied arms in general. I don't see any reason, from the sentence quoted, to doubt that this is as intended.
(Cross-posted.)
0AnonymousWhy an article is omitted?Why is an article omitted?
You must put the verb before the subject in a question.
CJ
0
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