How to Use the Indefinite Article in Romanian for English Speakers

Understanding the Indefinite Article in Romanian

In Romanian, the indefinite article is used to refer to nonspecific objects or persons, similar to "a" or "an" in English. However, unlike English, Romanian places the indefinite article before the noun and it agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies.

Forms of the Indefinite Article

Romanian indefinite articles vary depending on the gender and number of the noun. Here are the basic forms:

• un – masculine singular
• o – feminine singular
• niște – plural (both genders)

Using 'un' with Masculine Singular Nouns

The indefinite article un is used before masculine singular nouns. For example, un băiat means "a boy." This is similar to the English "a" used before consonant sounds.

Using 'o' with Feminine Singular Nouns

The indefinite article o is used before feminine singular nouns. For example, o fată means "a girl." This corresponds to the English "a" or "an" before feminine nouns.

Using 'niște' for Plural Nouns

Romanian uses niște as the indefinite article for plural nouns regardless of gender. It translates roughly to "some" in English. For example, niște băieți means "some boys," and niște fete means "some girls."

Examples of Indefinite Articles in Sentences

• Am văzut un câine în parc. (I saw a dog in the park.)
• Ea are o carte interesantă. (She has an interesting book.)
• Au cumpărat niște mere. (They bought some apples.)

Important Notes on Usage

Unlike English, Romanian does not use an indefinite article with uncountable nouns or abstract concepts. Also, the indefinite article is not used with professions or nationalities when used after the verb a fi (to be). For example, El este doctor means "He is a doctor," without an article.

Summary of Indefinite Articles in Romanian

• Masculine singular: un
• Feminine singular: o
• Plural (both genders): niște

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong gender article (e.g., un with feminine nouns)
• Omitting niște when referring to plural indefinite nouns
• Using indefinite articles with professions after a fi