A lion vs. the lion

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi,

I understand there is little difference between:

  1. A lion is a dangerous animal; and
  2. The lion is a dangerous animal.

But should I think?:

#1 = (There is an animal which we refer to as) a lion is a dangerous animal; and
#2 = (Of all animals) the lion is a dangerous animal.

Thanks.

2

I think we can only say The lion or lions is/are a dangerous animal.

3

Haihao,

Your thoughts are correct on this. Therefore, both sentences are correct (“Lions are dangerous animals” would also be correct. This would refer to “lions” as a general topic.)

4

Thank you, Mr. Shannongcole, for your help. I really appreciate it.

5

Sorry, but I disagree with the whole argument. When speaking of the species in general as the topic (raion wa [Jp]), all three sentences carry the same meaning and no more:

A lion is a dangerous animal.
The lion is a dangerous animal.
Lions are dangerous animals.

They are simply alternative phrasings. There has been a lot of misinformation given out at this site recently, but if you all wish to continue advising each other on the English language, I for one do not have the time or patience to constantly oversee and correct.