The Tricky Exceptions to the ‘A’ vs. ‘An’ Rule

 Word Smarts

"We’re taught in grade school to use “a” before words beginning with consonants and “an” before words that start with vowels. But this simple grammar rule is more complex than it seems." 

"Some grammar rules are as straightforward as can be — at first glance, at least. We’re taught in grade school to use “a” before words beginning with consonants and “an” before words that start with vowels. That means you could plant “a herb garden,” right? Then why does “an herb garden” sound slightly better to our American ears? It’s because this simple grade-school grammar rule is more complex than it seems.

What Are Indefinite Articles?

'The English language has two types of articles: definite and indefinite. They identify whether a noun is specific or generic. “The” is a definite article — the only definite article in English, in fact — and it indicates that we are referring to a particular noun. For example, “John bought the car” refers to one very specific car.

'“A” and “an” are indefinite articles, and they can refer to any person, place, or thing. For example, if “Tom will bake a cake,” it could be chocolate, vanilla, or lemon. We don’t know what Tom has planned, based on the language used.

'When To Use "A" or "An"

'If “the” is the only definite article in English, why are there two indefinite articles? The simple answer is that they’re used in different situations, namely in regard to the letters that follow in the next word. Use “a” if the word that follows begins with a consonant:

They’re adopting a cat.

Did you wear a raincoat?

I’m eating a strawberry pie.

'Alternatively, use “an” if the following word begins with a vowel:

She needs an eye exam.

I gave him an umbrella.

Can you get an avocado from the store? More...