The computer has made text editing easier. (= Computers have made text editing easier.)

A real friend is always by your side. (= Real friends are always by your side.)

This usage refers to any member of a class, or in the sentence above any real friend. The definiteRelating to a specific or determined person, thing, idea or time. E.g.: I know the guy you are talking about. ("the guy you are talking about") articleAny of the words "a", "an" and "the", used to limit or give definiteness to a noun. "A" and "an" are indefinite articles, while "the" is a definite article. E.g.: A man was standing on the platform. ("a", "the") is not possible in this case.