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Ask for help > AN only child - why?
AN only child - why?

class centre
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AN only child - why?
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Please! How shall I explain to my sts why AN only child s correct, not THE only child? Thanks in advance....
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15 Oct 2013
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MoodyMoody
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A family has an only child. Once the family is specified, the only child also uses the definite article. |
15 Oct 2013
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yanogator
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To expand on MoodyMoody �s answer: If it is used as a description, it is "an only child". She is a redhead, a waitress, and an only child. She is the only child her parents have. Bruce |
15 Oct 2013
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class centre
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thank you so much, dear friends! Now I feel quite confident. have a nice day!
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15 Oct 2013
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Claunika
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Hi! I think it �s as if you say: �he has a child �, and not �he has the child �. It is the indefinite article that should be used as we are not defining the noun, but using it for general reference.
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15 Oct 2013
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class centre
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thanks a lot dear Claunika! Now I get it!
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16 Oct 2013
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Claunika
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Great! I �m glad I could help :) |
16 Oct 2013
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