We use the when we think of a specific thing:
Tim sat down on the chair nearest the door.
(a specific chair)
Did Paula get the job she applied for?
(a specific job)
We use a/an when we think of one out of many:
Tim sat down on a chair.
(perhaps one of many chairs in the room)
Paula is looking for a job.
(not a specific job)
Other use of the and a/an…
In expressions such as:
- once a week, three times a day, 1.50 a kilo etc.
- opera, theatre, cinema – these always go with the
