Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.

Mayank found ______ book he had been looking for all evening.

Appeared in: DSSSB 13 August 2024

Explanation

The definite article 'the' is the correct choice because the sentence refers to a specific, particular book.
The identity of the book is made clear by the restrictive clause that follows it: 'he had been looking for all evening'.
When a noun is clearly identified and specific, 'the' is always used.

Option B: Singular countable nouns like 'book' almost always require an article in English grammar. Omitting the article here would be grammatically incorrect.
Option C: 'A' is an indefinite article used for non-specific, singular nouns. The book in this sentence is specific, not general.
Option D: 'An' is an indefinite article used before nouns that start with a vowel sound (e.g., an apple, an hour). The word 'book' starts with a consonant sound.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of definite and indefinite articles in English grammar as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Although this is a non-nursing question, strong grammar skills are essential for clear and professional communication in healthcare.
Accurate documentation in patient records, reports, and care plans depends on precise language to avoid ambiguity and potential errors.
Clear communication with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary team is a cornerstone of patient safety.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the noun the article will modify, which is 'book'.
Next, analyze the context provided by the rest of the sentence to determine if the noun is specific or general.
The clause 'he had been looking for all evening' clearly specifies which book is being referred to. This makes the noun 'definite' or 'specific'.
Recall the rule that the definite article 'the' is used for specific nouns.
Eliminate the indefinite articles 'a' and 'an' because they are used for general, non-specific nouns.
Confirm that 'No article' is incorrect because a singular countable noun like 'book' requires an article in this context.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 13 August 2024

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