English Grammar Questions
Q11: Using indefinite article with abstract uncountable nouns
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M - Ontario, Canada "... I wish to understand the correct use and/or omission of the 'indefinite article' in this example: The student has sound knowledge of the curriculum. The student has a sound knowledge of the curriculum. Which use is correct and why? There has been a lot of discussion among educators. Some say the indefinite article "a" is necessary when it is followed by an adjective. Others feel that it is optional, and both versions are acceptable ..." Both sentences above are widely/commonly used, and both are grammatically correct. In the first example: The student has sound knowledge of the curriculum. The noun "knowledge" is an uncountable abstract noun having only the singular meaning. Rule M2.2 in LSEG says: "The nouns having general or abstract meaning take no article." Similar nouns are: joy, hunger, love, friendship, realism, etc. Please study Table M1.1: Categories of Nouns Based on Counting and particularly Table M1.2: Forming the Plural of the Nouns in LSEG. In addition, the ATTENTION note in Table M2.2: Nouns Taking no Article says: "Nouns take no article in order to highlight either their general character or unique individuality. When the general/unique character disappears, some of the above examples may take the definite or indefinite articles." (For examples please consult LSEG.) In the second example: The student has a sound knowledge of the curriculum. Table M2.3: Using Indefinite Article in LSEG says: "The indefinite article is used with uncountable nouns in order to suggest the idea of, 'a kind of'." (For examples please consult LSEG.) Although it is correct grammatically, the second example has a bit confusing meaning, when it is compared to the first example. In the second example, "the student has a sound knowledge" sounds accentuated, a bit emphatic, and the meaning is rather confusing. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the second form of expression related to the noun "knowledge". Note that other abstract nouns may be used perfectly well with the indefinite article: Jane used to display an extravagant Italian elegance. John had an incredible thirst for knowledge. NOTE Definite and indefinite articles determine ONLY nouns. Articles are used to set/mark/highlight/determine the general or the unique character of the nouns. As a particular instance, when an abstract noun is determined by an adjective, it loses its total/perfect abstract quality, therefore it becomes a group/category/kind and it also allows the indefinite article. | |||||||||||||||||||||
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