a,the

[huda]

hi,
sometimes,we dont use "the" or "a" with some words
when take place this case?

thanks

[nativeSpeaker]

If a noun is plural, you don't use "the" or "a."

"The student likes pizza."
"Students like pizza."

However, you would say, "All the students like pizza."

[wlsullivan]

Don't use "a/n" or "the" when talking about things in general. If you are talking about something specific, particular, or definite, then you need the definite article "the." Examples:
1) "All students like pizza." = In general, students everywhere like pizza.
2) "All the students liked the pizza." = A particular group of students (for example, the students in my class) liked *the* particular pizza that they ate.

[nativeSpeaker]

Thanks, wlsullivan. That's a better explanation. If you go to item #7 (Misplaced Articles) on the following website, there is a link for some quizzes you can take for practice. Hope this helps.

TOEFL Speaking Tips