LoginIndefinite Articles For Intermediate learners
What Are Indefinite Articles?
Indefinite articles (artículos indefinidos) mark a non-specific or unknown noun. They are used when the specific instance of the noun that is referred to is unknown.
Tip!
Some feminine nouns that start with a stressed "a" or "ha" sound take the masculine singular indefinite article to avoid repetition of sounds, but are still treated as feminine and take the feminine article when used as plural.
un alma → unas almas
a soul → some souls
un hacha → unas hachas
an ax → some axes
Uses
The indefinite articles are used:
To introduce a new or unidentified noun
Vi un gato en la calle.
I saw a (random) cat on the street.
Compré una computadora nueva.
I bought a new computer.
Hay unas cartas para ti.
There are some letters for you.
Expressing quantity
Quiero un café.
I want a (cup of) coffee.
Trajo unas flores.
She brought some flowers.
In the plural form, an approximate quantity is intended.
With modified nouns that refer to professions, nationalities, or religions
Es un médico excelente.
He's an excellent doctor.
Es una española simpática.
She's a nice Spanish woman.
With nouns used to highlight type or classification
Es un genio.
He's a genius.
Fue una sorpresa.
It was a surprise.
When Not to Use Indefinite Articles
In the following cases, no article is used with the noun in Spanish, although English might use indefinite articles in these cases:
With unspecific amounts (for uncountable nouns)
Quieres azucar?
Do you want some sugar?
With unmodified nouns of profession, religion, or nationality
Es médico.
He's a doctor.
With numerals for 100 and 1000
Tengo mil dólares.
I have a thousand dollars.
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