How to Use "A" and "An" Correctly

It can be a little confusing to figure out where "A" and "An" are used. Here is the proper way to use them.

Note: A and An rules may differ in different countries. These rules are based in America and may or may not apply elsewhere

Steps

 Use the following rules when using 'A' or 'An'.

1.          Use "A" before all words that begin with consonants.

• a pet
• a door
• a green onion
• a cat

 2.         With one exception: Use an before unsounded h.

• an honorable peace
• an honest error

3.         Use "An" before all words that begin with vowels:

• an apple
• an elbow
• an Indian

4.        With four exceptions: When u makes the same sound as the y in you, or o makes the same sound as w in won, then a is used. Also, when eu makes the same sound as y, or when e by itself makes the same sound as y, then likewise use a.

• a union
• a united front
• a unicorn
• a used napkin
• a U.S. ship
• a one-legged man
• a European trip
• a ewe lamb