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Snarf Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

"A" vs. "An" before an H-word

How do you know when to put an "an" instead of an "a" before a word that starts with "h"? For example, is this right?

"That was a harsh thing to say."

"That was an hilarious thing to say."

It sounds to me like in the second one, the "n" is needed, but not in the first.

Thanks.
  

Top answer

Both harsh and hilarious begin with a consonant sound, so use a.

— RandomGuy

  • Both harsh and hilarious begin with a consonant sound, so use a.
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5 Answers
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Both harsh and hilarious begin with a consonant sound, so use a.
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Okay, well, can you please give me an example of when "an" is required before a word that starts with "H"?

Thanks.
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Why "herb"? Isn't the "H" pronounced, for example, "herbs and spices"?
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SnarfWhy "herb"? Isn't the "H" pronounced … ?
In British English, yes.
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