0

He is the person for the job.

What's the meaning of "the" in the sentence?

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
3

"The" is a determiner, if a noun is determined, we can identify the noun from the context.

We understand from this that the phrase "for the job" is enough to determine the person. Therefore you understand that there is nobody else who is suitable for the job. Contrast this with the unidiomatic "He is a person for the job" which would suggest that while he is suitable there are other people equally suitable, or even more suitable.

The expression "He is the person for the job" is likely to be hyperbolic. The speaker is emphasising that the person is very well suited to the job by hyperbolically stating that he is the only person who could fit the role.

Improve this answer
0

The person here means the one

the ultimate being

Wiktionary has a similar definition:

(colloquial) A particularly special or compatible person or thing.

It means he is the ideal, the best or the most suitable person for the job.

We should not attempt to analyse the words the and one individually.

Improve this answer
4
  • 1
    Neo-Platonic philosophy isn't necessary to explain the meaning here. Why cite the entire Collins entry?
    – TimR
    Commented Jan 14 at 13:30
  • thx. I’ve edited
    – Seowjooheng Singapore
    Commented Jan 14 at 13:34
  • Not just BrE. Any standard English.
    – Lambie
    Commented Jan 14 at 15:52
  • thx. I've edited.
    – Seowjooheng Singapore
    Commented Jan 14 at 23:38

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .