The indefinite article in Italian may seem confusing but with a little practice, you can master these grammar requirements with ease! To help you improve your Italian language, we explore Italian indefinite articles with simple exercises and examples.
What are Indefinite Articles in Italian?
Whether you are traveling to Italy or working on improving your language skills, understanding Italian definite and indefinite articles is a must. Because Italian articles play such an important part of learning the language and pronunciation, it is important to learn these grammar rules.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEFINITE AND INDEFINITE ARTICLES
In English, there are two types of articles:
- Definite Articles (“the”)
These refer to a specific noun. Learn more about the Italian definite articles.
- Indefinite Articles (“a” or “an”)
The indefinite articles do not refer to a specific noun but we use them in general noun descriptions.
INDEFINITE ARTICLES IN ITALIAN
Italian indefinite articles are a little different from their English counterparts. The Italian articles are categorized according to number and gender. Both definite and indefinite articles in Italian will be used differently depending on the gender and the number of the noun you are referring to.
In short, you will be using articles in Italian according to their numerical properties, masculine, or feminine descriptions, or when you are referring to a general noun in its singular or plural form.
Use our examples to guide you while learning!
In Italian, there are four categories of indefinite articles including: un, uno, una and un’
– For masculine nouns we use: UN – UNO
Un is used for most types of vowels and consonants.
For example: un uomo – a man
Uno is used for masculine nouns that start with s, ps, pn, gn, x, y, z.
For example:
- uno psicologo – a psychologist
- uno studente – a student
– For feminine nouns we use: UNA – UN’
Una is used for nouns that begin with a consonant:
For example: una ragazza – a girl
Un’ is used for nouns that begin with a vowel
For example: un’ora – an hour
More Examples of Indefinite Articles in Italian
- A man walked into my shop – Un uomo entrò nel mio negozio
- I use a pencil to draw – Uso una matita per disegnare
- She spoke for an hour – Ha parlato per un’ora
DOs AND DON’Ts OF THE INDEFINITE IN ITALIAN
We Use the Indefinite Article in Italian Where We Would Use “a” or “an” in English
Example:
- Would you like an ice cream? – Vuoi un gelato?
We Do Not Use Italian Articles with the Words “cento” and “mille”
Example:
- A thousand times – mille volte
- A hundred pounds – 100 sterline
We Do Not Use Italian Articles when We Talk About “a few” or “a lot”
Example:
- A few sweets – qualche caramella
- A lot of money – molti soldi
LEARNING ITALIAN ARTICLES CAN BE EASY AND FUN
Italian indefinite articles form the foundation of the Italian language. Taking some time to master your skills with our simple exercises can help you develop your skills in this wonderful language.
You can also learn Italian online with our videos. We explore important grammar structures and help you avoid common mistakes.
Are you looking for more Italian grammar lessons? Discover the complete guide to Italian reflexive verbs!