In this lesson, we will learn how to use the article ‘an’ in your conversations.

“An” is an indefinite article. It is used to talk about countable nouns.

‘An’ is not used to talk about plurals or non-countable nouns. We use ‘an’ before vowels (a, e, i, o, u) and before vowel sounds.

Can I have an apple?

Here ‘apple’ is a noun beginning with a vowel sound.

Bruce Springsteen is an American musician.

An indefinite article is used because he is part of a group of American musicians.

My father in an architect.

Since ‘architect’ begins with a vowel sound, we use the article ‘an.’

I live in a United States.

This sentence is incorrect.

We do not use indefinite articles with countries, states, or provinces, lakes, or mountains because they are unique.

I live in the United States.

This is the correct sentence.

Cassie is an interpreter.

In this example, Cassie belongs to a group of interpreters. We use ‘an’ because ‘interpreter’ begins with a vowel sound.

Sam is an honest person.

Here the adjective describing the noun begins with the consonant ‘h’.

However, we use the article ‘an’ because the ‘h’ is silent, and we pronounce the vowel sound /ɒ/.

What did you have for breakfast today?

I just ate an apple.

Just an apple? Are you on a diet?

No, I’m not. I just wasn’t very hungry.

All right. In that case, you might feel hungry at least an hour before the lunch break.

Hey. I’ve heard your dad is an architect. Is that right?

Yes, he is an architect. Why do you ask?

I’m planning to study Architecture. My parents advised me to meet an architect for some information about how it is to be one.

Oh really? Well, it is an amazing profession. You must meet my dad to get a better idea.

Can I meet him next Sunday?

I’m not sure. He has a very busy schedule.

Sure. Just let me know whenever he is free and willing to talk.

Can I have an apple?

Cassie is an interpreter.

Sam is an honest person.

My father in an architect.

Well, it is an amazing profession.

Bruce Springsteen is an American musician.

In that case, you might feel hungry at least an hour before the lunch break.