01/11/2021
English Tip of the Week!
The Singular Form ... A How-To: πͺ
The singular form is used to discuss single nouns. What could be simpler? What is there to talk about? π€ Well, a lot.
Of course, we leave off the -s that we would add if we were discussing a noun in the plural (multiple) form. So, "employee" instead of "employees". Done?
Not quite π€ It is NOT ENOUGH to simply remove the -s. You must also add either the word A or THE before the singular noun. (Unless we are discussing a proper noun, meaning, a name.) THE is used when discussing a SPECIFIC noun. For example, "THE new neighbor is friendly" or "THE solution is effective."
However, even when discussing a non-specific noun, you must include the word A before it. For example, "I wonder when A new neighbor will move in" or "We must think of A solution."
Still not done π If the noun begins with a vowel (a,e,i,o,u), the A becomes AN. So, "I received AN email" or "We need AN inovative solution."
And the grand finale π ... the letter H. Sometimes H is pronounced as /h/, a hard sound that is audible (heard), as in "huge." But sometimes H is silent, as in "honest." When it's silent, the H is like a vowel, requiring AN instead of A before it. "He is AN honest man" as opposed to "What A huge house."
Hope that clears up all aspects of the singular!
As always, please be in touch for professional English coaching and instruction π»