What is a definite article?

A definite article is a word used in a language to denote a specific noun that is already known to the reader or listener, distinguishing it as particular rather than general. It is typically equivalent to the English word "the."

In French, the definite articles are "le" for masculine singular nouns, "la" for feminine singular nouns, and "les" for plural nouns, regardless of gender. For instance, "le chat" means "the cat" when referring to a specific cat.

In Spanish, the definite articles are "el" for masculine singular nouns, "la" for feminine singular nouns, "los" for masculine plural nouns, and "las" for feminine plural nouns. An example would be "el perro" for "the dog."

In German, the definite articles are "der" for masculine singular nouns, "die" for feminine singular and all plural nouns, and "das" for neuter singular nouns. For example, "der Baum" means "the tree" for a specific tree being discussed.

These articles play an essential role in sentence construction and meaning, guiding the reader's or listener’s comprehension of the noun being referenced.