In Articles^x, Countable nouns^x, Genitives^x

1. It may be unwise to say that something can be done to all proper nouns in English because there seem to be so many exceptions to every rule. However, using a and the with proper nouns in certain contexts is normal. The of-genitive - or of structure - or whatever you prefer to call it often...

CalifJim wrote: Light from several lanterns filled the room with a soft glow. Laughter of children was heard on the playground. Hmm. Do these have to be The light ... and The laughter ... ? I certainly don't want to criticize Steinbeck's English at all. I dealt with the of-genitive...

Believer wrote: Can a gerund function as a countable noun? If so, can you show me how it is done in simple terms? Hi Believer Of course a gerund can form a plural: his comings and goings. As you see, the plural is formed by adding an s to the word. Some grammarians distinguish between a gerund...

Thank you, Eimai_Anglos. Are you saying a genitive cannot be made a countable noun or used as a countable noun? I think a guru has delivered expert advice on that aspect of grammar and I think it has been said a construction like "a shaking of a ground" means "an instance of shaking of a...

Hi Believer In all your examples, of is not a part of the co-called of-genitive and thus does not require the . Knowledge is an exceptional uncountable noun, it can take the indefinite article although it is never used in the plural: He has a working knowledge of English. I have a poor...