The Word on Language and Grammar with Anne Curzan, Part 34
Updated: November 15, 2024
Summary
The video explains that the usage of 'a' or 'an' in English is based on the sound of the following word, not just whether it starts with a vowel or consonant. It challenges the traditional rule of five and a half vowels by showcasing at least fourteen vowel sounds in English. The discussion delves into the variety of vowel sounds in standard American English and clarifies the use of 'a' or 'an' with words such as unicorns, herbs, and historical events, emphasizing pronunciation over spelling. Viewers learn how to differentiate words that are spelled with an initial vowel but actually start with a consonant sound.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A vs An: The Basics
The usage of 'a' or 'an' in English depends on the sound of the following word, not just whether it starts with a vowel or consonant.
Vowels in English
English has at least fourteen vowels, contrary to the traditional rule of five and a half vowels. The discussion includes the variety of vowel sounds in standard American English.
Unicorns and A vs An
Explaining the use of 'a' or 'an' with words like unicorns, herbs, and historical events based on pronunciation rather than spelling. Differentiating between words that are spelled with an initial vowel but start with a consonant sound.
FAQ
Q: What determines whether to use 'a' or 'an' in English?
A: The sound of the following word determines whether to use 'a' or 'an' in English, not just whether it starts with a vowel or consonant.
Q: How many vowels does the English language actually have?
A: English has at least fourteen vowels, in contrast to the traditional rule of five and a half vowels.
Q: What does the discussion in the file cover regarding vowel sounds in standard American English?
A: The discussion covers the variety of vowel sounds in standard American English.
Q: Can you explain the use of 'a' or 'an' with words like unicorns, herbs, and historical events?
A: The use of 'a' or 'an' with words like unicorns, herbs, and historical events is explained based on pronunciation rather than just spelling.
Q: How does English differentiate between words that are spelled with an initial vowel but start with a consonant sound?
A: English differentiates between words that are spelled with an initial vowel but start with a consonant sound, especially in determining the usage of 'a' or 'an'.
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