Article Usuage

[kooiu]

I still need help on article usuage.

I am still not clear which rules support the use of "the" in the following opening, first-mentioned sentences: Is it that the nouns with "the" are attribute-nouns (like "the brightness of stars") or what? I was once told that "the" is for the object of "of-phrase nouns". I applied this to "The omission of a verb in the first sentence of an essay." But I later learned that it is incorrect. Instead, it is correct to say, "Omission of a verb in the first sentence in an essay is bad". I do not know why.

Each time I came across words like "the growth of books" the introduction of programmes", "the adoption of ideas" I do not know why "the" was used before these words. Please explain along with the following.

The events are the result of particular historical conditions.
The events are a result of particular historical conditions.
An introduction of new methods is good for our society.
Introduction of new methods is good for our society.
The introduction of new methods is good for our society.
His action led to the distortion of societal values.
HIs action led to a distortion of societal values.
His action led to distortion of societal values.

Thank you.

[Tdol]

Originally Posted by kooiu

I applied this to "The omission of a verb in the first sentence of an essay." But I later learned that it is incorrect. Instead, it is correct to say, "Omission of a verb in the first sentence in an essay is bad". I do not know why.

I disagree that it is wrong to use the use the article there. I think both forms could be used.

The events are the result of particular historical conditions.
The events are a result of particular historical conditions.

With cases like this, the article depends on whether there is only one result, the first, or whether there are other results, the second.

[kooiu]

Tdol,
Thank you once again for your reply. Please correct me if I am wrong about the following:
From your reply, it seems every "of phrase" must have "the" before it.

I am well familiar with article usage rules. My major problem right now has to do with "of phrases". Are there rules to know when an "of phrase" is definite or indefinite.

For example, I have come across statements like "division of functions", "the division of functions". I do not as yet know why one has "the" and the other does not. Is it optional at time to leave out "the".

The main problem I have is with "of phrase". Please help again.

[Tdol]

An 'of phrase' doesn't have to have 'the:
Fear of flying- a general fear
The fear of failing this time- specific fear

However, there will be cases where the distinction is less clear. With your example, I could see both being used, and I honestly think that you could have two writers saying the same thing, one with and one without the article.