a

"A" is one of the most common words in the English language — it is an article, and you will use it in almost every sentence you speak or write! It has a couple of closely related uses, all centered around the idea of introducing something.

1determinerintroducing something for the first time

Use 'a' when you mention something for the very first time, or when it doesn't matter which specific one you mean. Think of it as saying 'one of those things' — not a particular one, just any one. You use 'a' before words that start with a consonant sound.

everyday language · Modern, universally used

I saw a dog in the park today.

She wants to buy a new phone.

He picked up a book from the shelf.

2determinermeaning 'one' or 'each'

Sometimes 'a' simply means 'one' or 'per'. For example, when you talk about a price, a speed, or a frequency, 'a' tells you how much for each single unit.

everyday language · Modern, universally used

The car travels at 100 kilometers a hour.

I go to the gym three times a week.

Apples cost two dollars a kilogram.

3determinerreferring to any member of a group

You can use 'a' to talk about something in general — not one specific thing, but any example of that type. It is very useful when you are describing what something is or what someone does.

everyday language · Modern, universally used

A dog is a loyal animal.

She is a doctor.

That is a great idea.