Should I use "a" once or twice?

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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ansonman
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Should I use "a" once or twice?

Post by ansonman »

I have made up the examples below.

(1a) Henry has a goal and a dream of becoming the best musician in the world.
(1b) Henry has a goal and dream of becoming the best musician in the world.

(2a) I will put a pencil and a pen in my pocket.
(2b) I will put a pencil and pen in my pocket.

(3a) He will buy a calculator and a car tomorrow.
(3b) He will buy a calculator and car tomorrow.

Most of my non-native English speaking friends think all the b versions are correct. My other friends think the a ones are correct. I am not sure who is correct. Thank you for your help.
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Alan
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Re: Should I use "a" once or twice?

Post by Alan »

All are grammatically possible, although the forms with the repeated article are more natural.

Please refer also to my previous answer on this topic.
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