In Spanish, the definite articles correspond to the English word "the." They are used to indicate that the noun they accompany is specific and known.
Forms
The definite articles in Spanish agree in gender (masculine or feminine) and number (singular or plural) with the noun they modify.
| Spanish Article |
|---|
| el |
| English Translation |
| Usage |
| masculine singular |
Usage
Definite articles are used in Spanish in situations where English might not use "the."
General Rules
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| Voy a la casa. |
| English Example |
| Rule |
| 1. To refer to something specific |
Examples
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| La biblioteca está cerrada. |
| English Example |
| Usage Note |
| Refers to a specific, known library. |
Summary
Definite articles in Spanish are used to indicate specific nouns, talk about things in general, and follow certain conventions (like usage with days of the week and body parts). They agree in gender and number with the noun.
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Last updated: Thu Jul 17, 2025