Question

Is there a rule in English regarding the usage of "a unique" or "an unique"? For instance, which one of these is correct: "a unique soul" or "an unique soul"?

Thank you and warm regards,
Petra.

2023-04-17

This is what goPenpal answered

That's a great question, Petra! When it comes to using "a" or "an" before a word that starts with a vowel, it all depends on the sound that the first letter of the next word makes.

In standard English, "an" is used before words that start with a vowel sound, and "a" is used before words that start with a consonant sound. So, we would say "an apple" because the word "apple" starts with a vowel sound, but we would say "a banana" because "banana" starts with a consonant sound.

Now, when it comes to the word "unique," it's a little tricky. The sound that the first letter "u" makes can vary depending on the word that follows it. If the word that follows starts with a consonant sound like "soul," we use "a." So, the correct phrase is "a unique soul."

However, if the word that follows "unique" starts with a vowel sound like "umbrella," we would use "an." So it would be "an unique umbrella."

It's important to note that some people might consider both "a unique" and "an unique" acceptable, but using "a" is the more widely accepted and correct option.

I hope that clears things up for you, Petra! Let me know if you have any other language questions.

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