INDEFINITE ARTICLE: A AND AN
by Luis Benavides
1. Examples: She has a euro. Sounds like "yu-ro". That number is a "1". Sounds like "won".
2. Definition: We use the indefinite article, a/an, with count nouns when the hearer/reader does not know exactly which one we are referring to
3. When do we use the article AN is used before singular, countable nouns which begin with vowel sounds.
3.1. Examples: He is an engineer.
3.2. She didn't get an invitation.
3.3. I saw an Elk at the zoo.
4. Use A before words such as "European" or "university" which sound like they start with a consonant even if the first letter is a vowel. Also use A before letters and numbers which sound like they begin with a consonant, such as "U", "J", "1" or "9". Remember, it is the sound not the spelling which is important. For example, "1" is spelled O-N-E; however, it is pronounced "won" like it starts with a "W".
5. When do we use the article A is used before singular, countable nouns which begin with consonant sounds
5.1. Examples: He is a Doctor.
5.2. She doesn't own a Bike.
5.3. I saw a pig at the zoo.
6. Video
