Why do we use "THE" before certain relationship words?

[B_Hung Jon]

I want to know why we use "the" before words that relate to relationships? For example: "the" wife.."the" girlfriend"..."the" boyfriend..."the" little woman...? Here's a sentence for instance. "I'd like to go to see that film but I have to ask the girlfriend first." Any ideas? :biggrin1:

 

[BUSTERHYMAN]

Because she has THE snach

 

[491285]

It's the definite article, so it means you've only got one. It's a bit less possessive, too, I think.

 

[RideRocket]

Because she has THE snach

Ding!

 

[D_JuanAFock]

"the" is also used for a title such as "the Duke"

 

[crescendo69]

The self will think about it and get back to you.

 

[Daisy]

It's the definite article, so it means you've only got one. It's a bit less possessive, too, I think.

what he said. Plus, I feel like I'm 13 years old when I say "My boyfriend...."

 

[Not_Punny]

Imagine if Steve Martin had referred to himself as THE wild and crazy guy. :tongue:

 

[B_Nicodemous]

It's the definite article, so it means you've only got one. It's a bit less possessive, too, I think.

what he said. Plus, I feel like I'm 13 years old when I say "My boyfriend...."

Bingo! In SPanish it'sike using a infront of el or la, it gives a certain weight to the word, emphasises it.