IndianTechnoEra: Using an

Using an

The word an is used before many singular naming words that begin with a vowel sound.

Common examples include an apple, an egg and an orange.

Learning Objectives

• Understand when to use an.
• Recognise common words used after an.
• Use an before simple singular naming words.
• Use an in simple sentences.

Using an Before Naming Words

an apple
an egg
an elephant
an orange

These naming words begin with vowel sounds, so we use an.

More Examples

an umbrella
an animal
an insect
an ant

Using an in Sentences

I ate an apple.
She has an umbrella.
We saw an elephant.
He found an egg.

The word an comes directly before the singular naming word.

A or An?

a cat ✓
an apple ✓
a ball ✓
an orange ✓

We choose a or an based on the beginning sound of the next word.

Common Mistakes

• Do not use a before every singular naming word.
• Do not forget an before words beginning with a vowel sound.
• Remember that an is used with singular naming words.
• Say the word aloud to hear its beginning sound.

Practice

1. Complete: ___ apple.

2. Complete: ___ egg.

3. Complete: ___ elephant.

4. Choose: a orange / an orange.

5. Complete: I have ___ umbrella.

Try It Yourself

Think of five words that can come after an. Say each word aloud with an.

Example: an apple, an egg.

Quick Revision

• An is used before many singular naming words beginning with a vowel sound.
• An apple, an egg and an orange are common examples.
• An can be used in simple sentences.
• Choose an when the next word begins with a vowel sound.

Next Step

In the next lesson, you will learn how to use the.