Definition

A word that helps specify or limit the meaning of a noun, such as articles, possessives, or demonstratives, and usually appears at the beginning of a noun phrase.

Example

In the sentence 'The cat is sleeping', 'the' is a determiner that specifies which cat is being referred to.

Conversation

I was studying grammar and came across the term determiner.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It's a word that helps specify a noun, like 'the' or 'some'.

Got it! I didn't realize how important determiners are in sentences.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Determiner → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "terminare" (meaning to limit or set boundaries). The word "determiner" refers to a word that limits or specifies a noun, thus setting boundaries on its meaning.

Memory Tip

Think of a word that 'limits' or 'sets boundaries' on a noun — 'de-' suggests down or away, and 'terminare' means to limit.

Visually Confused Words