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Search concise B2 First grammar, vocabulary, functional phrases and exam strategy — without leaving the course to hunt through past lessons.
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What it is
Words that show how much or how many, and the articles that tell the listener whether a noun is new, known or general.
Form
| Type | Pattern | Model sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Countable | many / a few / several / a couple of + plural noun | We had a few problems. |
| Uncountable | much / a little / a great deal of + singular noun | There isn't much time. |
| Either | some / any / a lot of / plenty of / no + noun | There's plenty of space. |
| Indefinite article | a/an + singular countable (first mention) | I bought a bike. |
| Definite article | the + known / unique / superlative noun | The bike I bought is red. |
Zero article for general plurals and uncountables: Cars pollute. Advice is free.
Use it when
- You quantify something in speaking or writing.
- You mention something for the first time (a/an) or refer back to it (the).
- You generalise about a whole category (no article).
Examples
- Very few students had read the article.
- A little practice every day beats one long session.
- The information you sent was very useful.
- Public transport is cheaper than driving.
Watch out
I need some informations.
I need some information.
Information is uncountable and has no plural.
She plays the football.
She plays football.
No article with sports and general activities.
Remember
New thing → a/an. Both of us know it → the. Whole category → nothing.
Quick check
- 1.There weren't ___ (many/much) people there.
- 2.I saw ___ film last night. ___ film was awful.