How to Use the Definite Article in Romanian for English Speakers

Understanding the Definite Article in Romanian

Unlike English, where the definite article "the" is a separate word placed before a noun, Romanian attaches the definite article as a suffix to the noun itself. This unique feature can be challenging for English speakers learning Romanian.

What is the Definite Article?

In Romanian, the definite article is a suffix added to the end of the noun to indicate that the noun is specific or known to the listener or reader. For example, the English phrase "the book" translates to cartea in Romanian, where carte means "book" and -a is the definite article suffix.

Forms of the Definite Article in Romanian

The form of the definite article suffix depends on the gender and number of the noun. Here are the main forms:

• - For masculine singular nouns: usually -l or -le
• - For feminine singular nouns: usually -a or -ua
• - For masculine plural nouns: usually -i or -ii
• - For feminine plural nouns: usually -le

Examples of Definite Articles with Nouns

How to Identify the Definite Article in Romanian Words

Since the article is attached to the noun, it is important to recognize the suffixes. For example, in copilul (the child), copil means "child" and -ul is the masculine singular definite article suffix.

Common Mistakes English Speakers Make

English speakers often try to place a separate word "the" before Romanian nouns, which is incorrect. Remember, in Romanian, the article is part of the noun word itself.

Practice Tips for Mastering the Definite Article

1. Learn the gender of nouns as you learn new vocabulary.
2. Practice adding the correct suffix based on gender and number.
3. Listen to native speakers and notice how the article is attached.
4. Use flashcards with nouns in both indefinite and definite forms.