A Vs An By Sound Not SpellingSet 10
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use "an" before a word?
Use "an" before a word that starts with a vowel sound, regardless of the actual first letter. For example, "an hour" is correct because "hour" starts with a vowel sound.
How do I determine if a word starts with a vowel sound?
A word starts with a vowel sound if the first sound you hear is a vowel (a, e, i, o, u). For instance, "university" starts with a vowel sound, so "a university" is incorrect; "an university" is correct.
What is the rule for using "a" before a word?
Use "a" before a word that starts with a consonant sound. For example, "a book" is correct because "book" starts with a consonant sound.
Why is "an" used before "honor"?
"An" is used before "honor" because the "h" is silent, making the word start with a vowel sound. Thus, "an honor" is correct.
Can "a" be used before a word starting with a vowel?
Yes, if the word starts with a consonant sound. For example, "a university" is correct because "university" starts with a "y" sound, which is a consonant sound.