The Definition of “The”

Almost every sentence used on a daily basis has the word “the” in it. It is amazing how used a word can be and still not be worn out. Webster’s On-Line Dictionary has numerous definitions of ”the” but they all start the same way: “used as a function word.” So we have one the most used words in the English language that is defined as a function word. So what is a function word?

Once again I go to Webster’s for a definition. Function is defined as: the action for which a person or thing is specially fitted or used or for which a thing exists. Now that is a mouthful. So “the” is a thing specially fitted, used, or for which a thing exists. I don’t think I know any more about the definition of “the” than when I started.

I guess I would define “the” as a way of addressing another word. It would be something like Mr. or Mrs. or Dr. It can sit in front of a noun, like the tree, or an adjective like the quaking aspens. It can be used before an adverb like the slowly moving train. We are so used to it being there and its function is nothing more than a way to pretty up speech. Try a sentence without using “the.” Quaking aspens shook beside slowly moving train. If you insert “the” The quaking aspens shook beside the slowly moving train, it regains the feel of speech.

A little frivolity and a quick hurrah for one of English’s unsung heroes, “the”.

Icool

Cobb