Questions & Answers about Η στάχτη και τα κάρβουνα είναι μακριά από τα σπίρτα.
Why is it η στάχτη and not η στάχτα?
Both forms exist, but στάχτη is the standard/common Modern Greek form for ash. It is a feminine singular noun, so it takes the feminine singular article η in the nominative:
- η στάχτη = the ash
A learner may also hear related forms in speech or regional use, but στάχτη is the form to learn first.
Why does the sentence use η before στάχτη, but τα before κάρβουνα and σπίρτα?
Because the nouns have different gender and number:
- η στάχτη = feminine singular
- τα κάρβουνα = neuter plural
- τα σπίρτα = neuter plural
Greek articles have to match the noun’s gender, number, and case. So:
- η = feminine singular nominative
- τα = neuter plural nominative/accusative
Is στάχτη singular or plural here?