The indefinite article a functions as a determiner before a singular count noun, either tangible (a human) or abstract (a trait). This determiner indicates that the noun is either being mentioned for the first time or is general (indefinite) in meaning, or both. Its omission elicits a temporary gap to an English-as-a-first language reader because indefinite article usage, inherent to the language, is intuitively recognised. Wendy Kingdom (editor) Amy Wheareat (editor)