Mastering the Use of An Article: 50 Examples for Perfect Grammar

Introduction

Use of An Article: Using articles correctly is essential for clear and accurate English. One common confusion is when to use ‘an’ instead of ‘a’. The rule is simple: ‘an’ is used before words that begin with a vowel sound (a, e, i, o, u). However, there are exceptions and tricky cases.

In this article, we’ll break down the rules and provide 50 examples to help you master the use of ‘an’ in sentences.

When to Use ‘An’

The article ‘an’ is used before:

  1. Vowel letters (a, e, i, o, u)an apple, an elephant
  2. Silent ‘h’ wordsan hour, an honest man
  3. Acronyms pronounced with a vowel soundan MBA, an FBI agent

Avoid using ‘an’ before:

  • Words starting with a consonant sound (e.g., a university, a one-time offer)
  • Words where ‘h’ is pronounced (e.g., a horse, a hotel)

50 Examples of Using ‘An’ Correctly

Use of An Article: Before Vowel Sounds

  1. An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
  2. She adopted an elephant from the sanctuary.
  3. He is an honest man.
  4. I need an umbrella; it’s raining.
  5. She ate an orange for breakfast.
  6. He is an intelligent student.
  7. She found an interesting book.
  8. It’s an honor to meet you.
  9. He waited for an hour.
  10. She drew an oval shape.

Use of An Article: Before Silent ‘H’ Words

  1. It was an hour-long meeting.
  2. He is an heir to the throne.
  3. She gave an honest opinion.
  4. That’s an herb used in cooking. (American English)
  5. He told an hilarious joke.

Use of An Article: Before Acronyms with Vowel Sounds

  1. He is an NBA player.
  2. She works as an FBI agent.
  3. He earned an MBA degree.
  4. She received an SOS signal.
  5. It’s an NGO initiative.

Use of An Article: More Examples in Sentences

  1. She bought an expensive dress.
  2. He has an unusual hobby.
  3. She adopted an adorable puppy.
  4. He found an ancient coin.
  5. She wore an elegant gown.
  6. He received an award.
  7. She saw an eagle flying.
  8. He drank an iced coffee.
  9. She wrote an emotional letter.
  10. He owns an Italian restaurant.
  11. She attended an early meeting.
  12. He had an amazing experience.
  13. She found an empty seat.
  14. He told an exciting story.
  15. She received an invitation.
  16. He bought an expensive watch.
  17. She adopted an abandoned cat.
  18. He ate an enormous burger.
  19. She visited an art gallery.
  20. He joined an online course.
  21. She has an optimistic attitude.
  22. He found an old photograph.
  23. She wore an oversized jacket.
  24. He received an urgent call.
  25. She read an inspiring quote.
  26. He met an unknown artist.
  27. She bought an antique vase.
  28. He took an unexpected turn.
  29. She had an allergic reaction.
  30. He gave an impressive speech.

Use of An Article: Conclusion

Mastering the use of ‘an’ is easy once you remember the vowel sound rule. Whether it’s before vowels, silent ‘h’ words, or acronyms, practice makes perfect. Use these 50 examples as a guide to improve your grammar and avoid mistakes.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, say the word aloud—if it starts with a vowel sound, use ‘an’!

Now that you’ve learned the rules, try writing your own sentences using ‘an’ correctly. Happy learning!


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