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Why do we not use article before noun fruit in this question?

Do you like fruit?

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    Does this answer your question? [How do I know when to use "the" versus "a" versus "∅" as an article on a noun?](https://ell.stackexchange.com/questions/10479/how-do-i-know-when-to-use-the-versus-a-versus-%e2%88%85-as-an-article-on-a-noun) – ColleenV May 17 '21 at 12:52

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The fact that the sentence is a question is not relevant. We would use a zero article (that is, no article, definite or indefinite) in a statement also: I like fruit, Jack likes fruit, we like fruit, my stove burns coal, my dog eats meat.

We use the zero article before a mass (uncountable) noun. 'Fruit' here is a mass noun.

The same is true when the noun is plural but of indefinite number: the boy loves to play with toys.

The Zero Article in English Grammar

Michael Harvey
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We do not use an article for a general assertion or question. So, when asking “Do you like fruit?” this is a general question that could mean any type of fruit. The answer could be “Yes, I like fruit. My favorite fruit is watermelon.” On the other hand, if you were to present a bowl of fruit to a dinner guest, while they are eating you can “Do you like the/this/that fruit?” since you are referring to a specific bowl/piece of fruit that is in front of you. The answer could be “Yeah, this fruit is very fresh and sweet!”

“Do you like blueberries?” is a general question while inquiring about someone’s preferences, but on the other hand “Do you like these blueberries?” would be appropriate when asking about a specific container of blueberries that you are serving to someone. (if these specific ones are too soft, firm, sour, sweet, etc)

user136000
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