Determiner

usgb/dɪˈtɜːrmɪnər/
noun

A word that introduces a noun, like 'the', 'a', 'this', 'my', etc.

'The' in 'the cat' is a determiner.
Visual representation of "determiner" - A word that introduces a noun, like 'the', 'a', 'this', 'my', etc.

Often appears as...

  • 'a/an' determiner
  • 'possessive' determiner

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "determiner"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Noun Introduction

Determiners signal that a noun or a noun phrase will follow.

Illustration for Noun Introduction
In 'every student', 'every' is a determiner.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Quantity Clue

Some determiners, like 'few' or 'many', give information about the quantity.

Illustration for Quantity Clue
'Many people' indicates a large number.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Specificity

Determiners can tell us if the noun is specific ('the') or general ('a').

Illustration for Specificity
'A cat' could be any cat, but 'the cat' is one specific cat.
Visual representation of the word "Determiner"

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