Use of the Definite Article with Nouns in Expressions
to be on the safe side I am almost sure of the pronunciation of this name, but to be on the safe side let us consult the pronouncing dictionary. to play the piano (the violin, the harp) She plays the piano very well. it is out of the question “Will you go to the theatre tonight?” “It’s out of the question. I have lots of things to do.” to take the trouble to do something You had a difficult text to translate and you did not take the trouble to consult the dictionary. in the original You know English [...]
Some uses of Definite Article
The definite article is used: #1. With nouns modified by adjectives in the superlative degree. Miss Tox had the softest voice that ever was heard. (Dickens) #2. with nouns in word-groups the first component of which is some, many, none, most and the second a noun with the preposition of. Most of the gentlemen looked both angry and uncomfortable. (Voynich) #3. with nouns modified by the pronoun same and the adjectives wrong, right, very. То all invitations he replied with the same courteous and positive refusal. (Voynich) I do wish we had not opened the door of the wrong room. [...]