an
0 antonyms and opposites of an, grouped by meaning.
Article — The form of "a" used before a word that starts with a vowel sound.
We haven't recorded synonyms for an yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use an
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English an, meaning "one" — the same root that gave us the number "one."
Full origin of an →Frequently asked questions
What does “an” mean?
The word “an” means the form of "a" used before a word that starts with a vowel sound. In plain terms, just "a" adjusted for pronunciation before vowel sounds.
How do you pronounce “an”?
“An” is pronounced AN ([ˈeən] in IPA).
How do you use “an” in a sentence?
Here is “an” used in a sentence: “She adopted an old dog from the shelter.”
What part of speech is “an”?
“An” is an article.
Where does the word “an” come from?
The word “an” comes from Old English. From Old English an, meaning "one" — the same root that gave us the number "one.".
Is “an” a common word?
“An” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
When should you use "an" instead of "a"?
Use "an" before any word that begins with a vowel sound, regardless of spelling: "an apple," "an hour" (silent h), "an MP" (spoken as "em-pee"). Use "a" before consonant sounds, including vowel letters pronounced with a "y" or "w" sound: "a university," "a one-off." The rule follows sound, not spelling.
Is it "a historic" or "an historic"?
"A historic" is standard in modern English because the "h" in "historic" is pronounced. "An historic" is an older convention still used by some speakers and publications, but most current style guides recommend "a historic," "a hotel," and "a horrific."
Do you use "a" or "an" before abbreviations?
Go by how the abbreviation is spoken aloud. Say "an MBA" and "an FBI agent," because the first letters are pronounced with vowel sounds ("em," "ef"), but "a URL" ("you-ar-el") and "a NATO summit," because those begin with consonant sounds when spoken.
Is it "a herb" or "an herb"?
It depends on pronunciation. In American English the "h" in "herb" is silent, so "an herb" is correct; in British English the "h" is pronounced, making "a herb" the standard choice. The article simply follows whichever pronunciation you use.