Is It An Hour Or A Hour

Is It "An Hour" or "A Hour"? Grammar Explained

The correct way to say it is "an hour." This might seem like a minor detail, but understanding why is crucial for clear and grammatically correct writing. This article will delve into the reason behind this seemingly simple grammatical rule and offer some helpful tips to avoid this common mistake.

The confusion arises from the use of the indefinite article "a" versus "an." The choice between "a" and "an" depends on the sound of the following word, not the letter. We use "an" before words beginning with a vowel sound, while "a" is used before words beginning with a consonant sound.

The Vowel Sound Rule

The word "hour" begins with the letter "h," a consonant. However, the pronunciation of "hour" starts with a vowel sound. The "h" is silent, and the word begins with the vowel sound /aʊ/. Therefore, we use "an" before "hour."

Think of it this way: you'd say "an apple," "an umbrella," and "an orange," all because these words begin with a vowel sound. Similarly, "an honor," "an honest man," and "an heir" follow the same rule despite the starting letter.

Examples of Correct Usage

Here are some examples of correct usage demonstrating the "an" before words starting with a vowel sound:

• An hour later, the sun set.
• I need an honest opinion.
• She inherited an enormous fortune.
• It takes an unusual approach.

Examples of Incorrect Usage (and how to correct them):

• Incorrect: A hour passed quickly. Correct: An hour passed quickly.
• Incorrect: A unusual event occurred. Correct: An unusual event occurred.
• Incorrect: A orange is my favorite fruit. Correct: An orange is my favorite fruit.

Beyond "Hour": Applying the Rule to Other Words

Understanding this rule extends beyond just the word "hour." Always consider the sound of the word, not just the letter, when choosing between "a" and "an." Pay close attention to silent letters and words with unusual pronunciations.

Mastering "A" and "An": A Quick Guide

To ensure grammatical accuracy, remember this simple rule:

• Use "a" before words beginning with a consonant sound.
• Use "an" before words beginning with a vowel sound.

By paying attention to the pronunciation of the word following the indefinite article, you can confidently choose between "a" and "an" and avoid common grammatical errors. This small grammatical detail significantly impacts the overall impression of your writing, making it more polished and professional. So next time you're writing, remember "an hour"!