Select the most appropriate article to fill in the blank.

When ______ Concorde flew over Mumbai, it shook the city.

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

The definite article 'the' is used because the sentence refers to a specific, unique aircraft: the Concorde.
English grammar rules mandate the use of 'the' before the names of famous or specific ships, trains, aircraft, and spacecraft.
Using 'the' indicates that the noun 'Concorde' is a particular, well-known entity, not just any aircraft.

Option A: 'an' is an indefinite article used before singular, non-specific nouns that start with a vowel sound. 'Concorde' is a specific noun and starts with a consonant sound.
Option C: 'a' is an indefinite article used before singular, non-specific nouns that start with a consonant sound. 'Concorde' is a specific, proper noun, not a general one.
Option D: An article is required. Omitting the article would be grammatically incorrect as the names of specific, famous vehicles are preceded by 'the'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Grammar: Use of Definite Articles with Proper Nouns as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a general English question, a strong command of grammar is essential for nurses to ensure clear, accurate, and professional communication.
Precise language in clinical documentation, such as patient charts and incident reports, is critical for patient safety and continuity of care, preventing misinterpretations.
What if? - If a nurse wrote 'patient requested a painkiller' versus 'patient requested the painkiller', the first is a general request, while the second implies a specific medication was discussed or is due. This small difference can have significant clinical implications.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the sentence and identify the noun that follows the blank space, which is 'Concorde'.
Next, determine the nature of this noun. 'Concorde' is not a common noun for any airplane; it is the proper name of a specific, famous type of aircraft.
Recall the rules of English grammar regarding the use of articles with proper nouns, specifically for unique vehicles.
The rule states that the definite article 'the' should be used before the names of specific ships, trains, and aircraft.
Based on this rule, eliminate the indefinite articles 'a' and 'an', as well as the 'No article' option.
Conclude that 'the' is the only appropriate article to use in this context.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.