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"The" is a definite article which is often translated as "el", and "an" is an indefinite article which is often translated as "un". Learn more about the difference between "the" and "an" below.
the(
thuh
)
A definite article is a word that identifies a noun as specific or known to the speaker (e.g., the girl).
definite article
a. el (singular, masculine)
The pencil is in the drawer.El lápiz está en el cajón.
b. la (singular, feminine)
The ball is on the floor.La pelota está en el piso.
c. los (plural, masculine)
I like all the dresses in the store.Me gustan todos los vestidos de la tienda.
d. las (plural, feminine)
The flowers you bought are lovely.Las flores que compraste son hermosas.
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an(
ahn
)
An indefinite article is a word that indicates that a noun is not specific (e.g., a girl).
indefinite article
a. un (masculine)
That's an elephant.Eso es un elefante.
b. una (feminine)
I'd like an apple.Me gustaría una manzana.
A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
preposition
a. cada
Paulina is paid $20 an hour.A Paulina le pagan $20 cada hora.
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