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English Quiz | How to use the article 'the' with general concepts

English Grammar

Common mistakes when using 'the'

  • Many people are worried about the bad effects of mobiles on brain. [incorrect]
  • Many people are worried about the bad effects of mobiles on the brain. [correct]
  • We need to look at factors such as the availability of health care. [correct]
  • We need to look at factors such as availability of health care. [incorrect]

We use the before nouns which describe a general type of thing rather than a specific example of that thing:

  • These are problems for students living away from the family.
  • We don’t know the effects of such chemicals on the body.
  • The role of the student at university level varies greatly from country to country.
  • Most of our business is carried out over the telephone.

The is also used before abstract nouns which describe a situation, a quality, a process or a change. These words are often followed by of something.

  • There is a problem with the availability of clean water in some villages.
  • The distribution of income is uneven in most countries.
  • On the whole, the standard of living is better in urban areas.
  • Many residents complained about the frequency of bus services.
  • This advance was brought about by the development of new antibiotics.
  • He made a number of recommendations for the improvement of staff training.

We use the development / improvement, etc. of something to describe a general process of change, but developments / improvements, etc. in something to describe specific changes.

  • We try to keep up-to-date with new developments in information technology.

English Grammar Quiz

Now test your grammar skills with this short quiz based on the topic above: Are these sentences right or wrong?

Check your answers when you finish.


1. A diet which is high in cholesterol is bad for heart.
right
wrong

2. The introduction of computerized systems led to an increase in unemployment.
right
wrong

3. We all benefit from development of new technologies.
right
wrong

4. We were unhappy about the quality of the food available.
right
wrong

5. Last year the airline saw a 20% improvement in delays.
right
wrong

6. There have been changes in the relationship between the teacher and the student.
right
wrong

7. Rates vary depending on standard of accommodation you choose.
right
wrong

8. She focused on the role of a family in a child's education.
right
wrong



Score =

Correct answers:



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