97 Section 4.2 Nouns, Pronouns, and Adjectives Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Articles An article is an adjective that limits the noun or pronoun it modifies. The adjectives the, a, and an are articles. Articles come before a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase and can be definite or indefinite. The definite article the refers to a specific noun. The indefinite articles a and an typically refer to a noun in a general way. Use a before words that begin with a consonant sound and an before words that begin with a vowel sound. Articles need not be repeated before each noun in a series of nouns. In the following examples, the articles are shown in italics. The cat chased the mouse. A cat will sometimes come when called. The counselor has an open, caring attitude. The letter, envelope, and stamp were placed on the desk. Demonstrative Adjectives This, that, these, and those are demonstrative adjectives. A demonstrative adjective is used before a noun to indicate number and location. This and that are used with singular words. These and those are used with plural words. This and these indicate a location that is near the speaker. That and those indicate a location that is not near the speaker. Refer to the examples that follow. This food is delicious. That boat is moored at another pier. These children sing well. These same words are demonstrative pronouns when they take the place of a noun. Review the section on pronouns earlier in this chapter for examples of demonstrative pronouns. Check Your Understanding 1. Explain the difference between a proper noun and a common noun. Give examples of each. 2. What is the advantage of using pronouns? 3. Explain what someone should do when he or she cannot remember the plural form of an irregular noun. 4. Describe the purpose of adjectives. 5. What is a coordinate adjective? Build Your Vocabulary As you progress through this course, develop a personal glossary of key terms. This will help you build your vocabulary and prepare you for a career. Write a definition for each of the following terms and add it to your personal glossary. noun collective noun possessive noun pronoun antecedent adjective article definite article indefinite article demonstrative adjective Section 4.2 Review