of cloth
2007-06-09 05:41:50 · 5 answers · asked by gpkotholil 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
Both are correct, depending upon your intended meaning. A handkerchief refers to a generic handkerchief - you are talking about how handkerchiefs are generally made. In the second example, the handkerchief refers to a specific handkerchief, suggesting that this is how this particular handkerchief, but not necessarily ALL handkerchiefs, are made.
2007-06-09 05:46:32 · answer #1 · answered by neniaf 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The definite article and the indefinite article. A and THE. This example has both uses making sense in the sentence, although changing the meaning of the sentence. Both are true - as far as we know, that is. I don't think the construction of a handkerchief has ever been scientifically studied.
2007-06-09 12:50:39 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They can both be right. Handkercheif's are made of cloth, but if you are speaking about a particular one, then you should say, "The handkercheif...," or even better state: "This handkerchief is made..."Using the pronoun "this" helps to identify the specific thing/handkerchief.
2007-06-09 13:05:48 · answer #3 · answered by Just a writer at the sea... 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you use.....
A handkerchief----------- it means all handkerchiefs.
The handkerchief-------- it means a particular piece of handkerchief.
So, choose which one you want.
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2007-06-09 12:46:34 · answer #4 · answered by winterlotus 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Use A when you refer to things in general. Use The when you want to specify which one you are talking about.
2007-06-10 05:45:29 · answer #5 · answered by Rene B 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋