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the list vs a list

Both 'the list' and 'a list' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'The list' refers to a specific list that has been previously mentioned or is known to the speaker and the listener. 'A list' is used when referring to any list in general.

Last updated: March 26, 2024 • 899 views

the list

Correct. 'The list' is used when referring to a specific list that has been previously mentioned or is known to the speaker and the listener.

'The list' is used when you are talking about a particular list that has already been introduced or is familiar to both the speaker and the listener.
  • Click to move selected filter up in the list. Filters higher in the list are applied first.
  • Click to move selected word up in the list. Words higher in the list are applied first.
  • Add new proxy exception address to the list.
  • Apparently the president wants you back on the list.
  • Put Mr. Sheridan back on the list.
  • Medicinal products included on the list must be clearly identified as such on the package in order to provide patients and healthcare professionals with a source of information separate from the list.
  • Click to move a word down in the list. Words lower in the list are applied last.
  • And the list of preferential employment.
  • Add armed resistance to the list.
  • ATF narrowed the list of potential buyers.
  • This proposal already includes the list of defence-related products.
  • Broadening of scope - the list is self-explanatory.
  • I check the list twice: always naughty.
  • That concludes the list of speakers.
  • Annex I contains the list of eligible measures.
  • I'm adding fraud to the list of charges against her.
  • Marrying Rich was top of the list.
  • We can add jilted ex-girlfriend to the list of suspects.
  • Okay, check the list of investors from Murray & Bowman.
  • He's on the list that Lizzie Ambrose brought over.

a list

Correct. 'A list' is used when referring to any list in general.

'A list' is used when you are talking about any list in a general sense, without specifying a particular list.
  • Appendix 1 contains a list of those authorities.
  • Display a list of all commandline options.
  • Garcia's compiling a list of foreign exchange students.
  • You made a list and started killing.
  • I brought a list of birthdays for horoscopes.
  • Roy e-mailed himself a list of bank clients.
  • Along with a list of symptoms.
  • Stamper will give you a list.
  • Which gets us a list of about 2000 vehicles.
  • I also need a list of the ballet company principals.
  • Here's a list of the other three guys.
  • Homeland's sending over a list of possibilities.
  • Okay, I have made a list of jobs for everyone.
  • I made a list of songs Ivy knows.
  • I have a list too long to enumerate.
  • - We'd like a list of your clients.
  • We'll get you a list of our witnesses.
  • There's a list of side effects when mixed with alcohol.
  • I want a list of all the men who visited these premises.
  • I'm getting you a list.

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