A and An

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“A” and “an” are indefinite articles in English, and their use depends on the sound that follows them. The basic rule is:

Use “a” before words that begin with a consonant sound:

• a car, a book, a dog, a book, a log

Use “an” before words that begin with a vowel ‘a,e,i,o,u’ sound:

• an apple, an hour, an honest person, an orange, an ape

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It’s important to note that it’s about the sound that follows the article, not necessarily the letter itself. For example:

• Use “a” before words that begin with a pronounced “h” (consonant sound): a house, a hat
• Use “an” before words that begin with a silent “h” or a vowel sound: an hour, an honest person

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Here are some examples to illustrate:

• “I saw a cat in the garden.”
• “She has an interesting idea.”
• “He bought a new car.”
• “I’d like an orange, please.”
• “She found a key under the mat.”
• “There’s an elephant at the zoo.”

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Remember that the choice between “a” and “an” is based on the sound, so it might not always align with the first written letter of the following word.

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