when to use un and el before the noun

Question

When to use un and el before the noun?

Answer 1

Welcome to the forum!

The difference between 'un' and 'el' in Spanish is just like the difference between 'a' and 'the' in English.

'Un' is used when you want to talk about a noun, like 'un libro' = 'a book'.

But you would use 'el libro' if you are referring to a specific book, 'the book'.

Oh and do be aware that 'un' or 'el' are only used for masculine nouns. For the feminine equivalent you would use 'una' or 'la' instead.