Democracy is an idea with a pedigree stretching back to ancient Greece.

[GoldfishLord]

Democracy is an idea with a pedigree stretching back to ancient Greece.

Source: https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/pedigree-

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What's the reason "a" is used rather than "the"?

 

[5jj]

The pedigree is not defined by the article.

 

[GoldfishLord]

What's the meaning of "the pedigree is not defined by the article"? I don't understand.

 

[5jj]

The pedigree of this horse shows the benefit of crossing thoroughbred blood onto jumping prowess.
The pedigree referred to is specifically defined. The definite article is used.

Democracy is an idea with a pedigree stretching back to ancient Greece.
The word 'pedigree' is not specifically defined. The indefinite article is used.