Occasionally, articles are omitted altogether before certain nouns. In these cases, the article is implied but not actually present. This implied article is sometimes called a “zero article.” Often, the article is omitted before a noun that refers to an abstract idea. Look at the following examples:
Incorrect: Let’s go out for a dinner tonight.
Correct: Let’s go out for dinner tonight.
Incorrect: The creativity is a valuable quality in children.
Correct: Creativity is a valuable quality in children.
Tip: The words for many languages and nationalities are not preceded by an article.
Incorrect: I studied the French in high school for four years.
Correct: I studied French in high school for four years.
Tip: Sports and academic subjects do not require articles.
Incorrect: I like to play the baseball.
Correct: I like to play baseball.
Incorrect: My sister was always good at the math.
Correct: My sister was always good at math.
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