use of the before winter

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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quazimahbub
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use of the before winter

Post by quazimahbub »

Dear Sir

which sentence is correct

The Cuckoo sing in winter

Cuckoo sing in the winter

Sincerely Yours

Mahbub
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Alan
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Re: use of the before winter

Post by Alan »

Actually, both versions are possible (i.e. with or without article) when, as here, reference is to the season in general.
When, however reference is to a season in a specific year, 'the' is obligatory.

Thus, compare

The cuckoo sings in (the) winter.

This year I took my paid leave in the summer, but next year I'm going to take it in the winter.
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