exceptional uses of articles
1) We use the for a particular reason. It is used for a definite purpose.
2)We use a in front of consonants. It is used to denote singular nouns. SUppose. " a student , a bright child.. " etc
3) AN - We use it in front of vowels. a e i o u . however, sometimes, even in front of words beggining with vowels. Suppose, we don't say an uniform , an unicorn ,
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/determiners/determiners.htm#articles
Exceptional uses of articles refer to situations in which articles (definite and indefinite) are used in unique or non-standard ways. Here are a few examples:
1. Generic Use: Articles are typically used to specify a particular noun, but sometimes they can be used generically to represent a whole class or category. For instance, "The lion is a majestic animal" implies that all lions are majestic, not just a specific one.
2. Unique Objects: Definite articles are generally used when referring to a specific noun, but there are exceptions. For instance, we say "The sun rises in the east" because there is only one sun in our solar system.
3. Names of Countries and Geographic Features: Generally, we don't use articles before the names of countries or geographic features, such as rivers or mountains. However, there are exceptions like "the Netherlands," "the United States," or "the Thames River."
4. Expressions of Time: Articles are typically used with specific time expressions, such as "I will see you in the afternoon." However, when we refer to general times, no article is used, such as "I like to swim in summer."
5. Occupations and Titles: Generally, we don't use articles before someone's occupation or title, but exceptions occur when the occupation or title is used in a descriptive or generic manner. For example, "She is a doctor" refers to her profession, while "She is the doctor who saved my life" refers to a specific doctor.
It's important to note that while these are exceptional uses of articles, they may vary based on context, regional differences, and specific grammatical rules.