Utility of Articles (was: Rise of the Feminine)

--- In cybalist@yahoogroups.com, enlil@... wrote:

> There are a lot of things in English that if dismissed would make
> our language a whole bunch easier. Like that pesky the/a

distinction.

> I mean, really, who cares if a noun is definite or not?

I do.

> What does the definite/indefinite contrast in English do that's
> all so important?

It can be a great help in assessing whether you've missed part of
the tale. I get confused when the wrong article is used.

Richard.