Indefinite article (a/an)

1. What Are Indefinite Articles?

We use a and an before one singular countable noun when it is not specific. We often use them when we mention something for the first time.

We often use a / an in these situations:

• when we mention something for the first time (First time: I saw a cat.),
• to describe jobs or professions (Job: She is a doctor.),
• for general descriptions (Description: It is a big house.).

We will also see when we do not use a/an — for example, with plural nouns and uncountable nouns.

There are two indefinite articles:

• a → before words that begin with a consonant sound (most letters: b, c, d, f, g …)
• an → before words that begin with a vowel sound (a, e, i, o, u sounds)

2. Using a

Structure

a + (adjective) + singular countable noun

Examples

3. Using an

Structure

an + (adjective) + singular countable noun

Examples

4. No Article in General Statements

We do not use a/an directly before plural nouns or uncountable nouns in general statements. Uncountable nouns are things we cannot count, like water, music, or milk.

5. Summary

Key Points

• Use a / an only with singular nouns.
• Do not use a / an with plural nouns or uncountable nouns in general statements.
• When you talk about something for the first time, use a / an.

Examples

Sound Rule Reminder

• a → consonant sound, singular nouns.
• an → vowel sound, singular nouns.
• No article for general statements and with plural nouns or uncountable nouns.