Grammar

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

As much as I try (because I'm an English grammar nut), I know I miss things from time to time. One of the things I wonder about was using a or an with the letter "u". It's not a true vowel. I finally Gemini(ed) it. Depending on the sound of the letter "u", determines whether you use a or an. In case you too are losing sleep over this, here is the break down

Use "a" if the 'U' is pronounced with a consonant sound (specifically the "yoo" sound, as in "university" or "unicorn"):
- a university
- a unicycle
- a useful tool
- a union
- a URL
- Use "an" if the 'U' is pronounced with a vowel sound (specifically the "uh" sound, as in "umbrella" or "up"):
  - an umbrella
  - an uncle
  - an urgent matter
  - an umpire
  - an update Turns out I'm doing it right after all but now I know the why. ps, I'm really not losing sleep over this lol

Desertdi · ‎03-13-2010

MY challenge was trying to understand what the heck Shakespeare was talking about.......

♥Surface of the Sun♥

Bookplate · ‎08-19-2011

Good examples.

I believe the way I was taught the difference was via long verses short vowel pronunciations: the long "u" (you) gets the "a" while the short "u"(uh) gets the "an".

How any second language learners ever learn English often amazes me.

Zhills · ‎11-15-2011

You are correct,@Bookplate

"For words beginning with “u,” you should consider the way the first letter sounds. If the “u” sounds like “uh,” use “an” (e.g., “an understatement,” “an ultimatum”). If the “u” sounds like “you,” use “a” (e.g., “a utopia,” “a university”)."

Interesting!