ESL Discussion

THE article

Posted by maría on June 18, 2011 in English HELP

I´d like to ask your opinion about this sentence:
When the students in England were interviewed by a local newspaper...........

Following the rules, we are talking about a particular group of students, those who live in England, so it is right adding the definite article "the"
But, at the same time, we are not saying the students in England who had been interviewed....... and we might take the students in England as a generalization(zero article). So, should I say: When students in England were.................?

I have this doubt.

Thanks in advance

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Replies

Nafis June 24, 2011 13:35

Dear Maria, in the first sentence, when you use "The", you refer to specific students in England, let's say, elementary students. But, in the second sentence, when you don't use "The", you talk generally about all students in England. So, when we use "The", we refer to specific groups or individuals but "Zero article" refers to a general situation. Hope this helps.
- maría > Nafis June 24, 2011 18:50
  
  Thanks a lot Nafis. It was a jigsaw for me.
- Nafis > maría June 25, 2011 14:46
  
  You are very welcome. Was it helpful?
This reply was deleted.
- Nafis June 24, 2011 13:37
  
  To practice your speaking, you can see this group on MYEC: Audio Speaking Group
- maría June 23, 2011 17:13
  
  I´m learning too, Amit. You have to read a lot, write and try to speak. This is a good place to share doubts and experiences.
  
  I believe you tried to say I am so weak in English, no?
  Write your doubts and ask the forum!!
Nafis June 21, 2011 14:58

Maria, Good question! Let me find the answer for you...
- maría > Nafis June 23, 2011 17:11
  
  Well, I hope you can find the answer. It confuses me!!
  THANKS IN ADVANCE