a / an
a / an means “Indefinite article: a/an before a singular countable noun mentioned for the first time”. Use a/an with a singular countable noun when it is new information or just 'one of many': I have a dog. Formation: a + consonant sound · an + vowel sound
Indefinite article: a/an before a singular countable noun mentioned for the first time
A1Formation
a + consonant sound · an + vowel sound
Explanation
Use a/an with a singular countable noun when it is new information or just 'one of many': I have a dog. Choose by sound, not spelling: a before a consonant sound (a book), an before a vowel sound (an apple, an hour).
Examples
Note
Sound decides: an hour (h is silent), but a university (sounds like 'yu'). No article with plurals: I like dogs.
FAQ
a / an — what does it mean and how is it used?
Indefinite article: a/an before a singular countable noun mentioned for the first time. Use a/an with a singular countable noun when it is new information or just 'one of many': I have a dog. Choose by sound, not spelling: a before a consonant sound (a book), an before a vowel sound (an apple, an hour).
a / an — how do you form it?
a + consonant sound · an + vowel sound
a / an — any usage notes?
Sound decides: an hour (h is silent), but a university (sounds like 'yu'). No article with plurals: I like dogs.