A Hour vs. An Hour – Which is Correct?
In English, the correct phrase is “an hour” and not “a hour”. The choice between these two forms depends on the phonetic sound that follows the article. Since “hour” starts with a vowel sound, it necessitates the use of “an” instead of “a”. Understanding this distinction is crucial for proper grammar usage.
a hour or an hour – Which is Correct?
The correct form is “an hour.” The use of “a” or “an” as articles is determined by the initial sound of the word that follows. “Hour” begins with a vowel sound (the “o” in “hour” is pronounced), making “an” the appropriate choice. Therefore, “an hour” is grammatically correct, while “a hour” is incorrect.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| a hour | Incorrect usage | N/A |
| an hour | Correct usage | I have an hour to complete my work. |
How to Use an hour
To use “an hour” correctly, always place it before a verb or in a sentence that requires a duration of time. It is essential to ensure that “hour” is preceded by “an” instead of “a” because of its vowel sound.
Example 1: I waited for an hour before the meeting started.
Example 2: It takes about an hour to bake the cake.
Example 3: She will arrive in an hour.
What are the different forms of an hour?
The term “hour” does not have verb forms as it is a noun. Its plural form is “hours.” In grammatical constructions, “an hour” can also be modified by adjectives, such as “long” in “a long hour.”
Etymology of the word an hour
The word “hour” originates from the Latin “hora,” which means “hour” or “time.” It has passed through various languages before reaching its current form in English, emphasizing its long-standing relevance in timekeeping.
Practice Exercises
- She can complete the task in _____ (a/an) hour.
- He’ll call you back in _____ (a/an) hour.
- We have to leave in _____ (a/an) hour.
- It only takes _____ (a/an) hour to get there.
- During _____ (a/an) hour of study, I learned a lot.
Answer Key
- an
- an
- an
- an
- an
an hour Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| sixty minutes | A period of time equal to 60 minutes. |
| time span | A duration or extent of time between two points. |
Conclusion
Understanding the correct usage of “an hour” is vital for proper grammar in English. It is important to remember that the vowel sound at the beginning of “hour” dictates the article used. Always opt for “an hour” in your writing and speech for accurate expression.
