an cross

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an cross" is not correct in written English.
The correct article to use before "cross" is "a," as "cross" begins with a consonant sound. Example: "I saw a cross on the hill during my hike."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is that a cross or an Ankh?

Huffington Post

A cross is an inherently Christian symbol".

Huffington Post

"A cross for everyone, a cross for everyone," he declares.

The New York Times

crucified on a cross.

The New York Times

It was a cross.

The New Yorker

A cross??

The Guardian - Sport

It is a cross betw.

The New Yorker

Fitness Routine: I have a cross trainer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Originally, it was crowned by a cross.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Everyone was expecting a cross, including Schwarzer.

Independent

Jane McGonigal is a cross between Tim Ferriss and Kelly Osbourne.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the article "a" before "cross" when referring to a non-specific cross, as "cross" begins with a consonant sound. For example, "I saw a cross on the hill."

Common error

Avoid using "an" before words that start with a consonant sound. Using "an" before "cross" is a common mistake; remember to use "a" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an cross" functions as an incorrect noun phrase due to the misuse of the article "an" before a word starting with a consonant sound. Ludwig indicates that the correct form is "a cross".

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an cross" is grammatically incorrect because the article "an" is used before vowel sounds, not consonant sounds like the 'cr' in "cross". Ludwig provides examples and confirms that the correct form is "a cross". Therefore, it's crucial to remember this basic grammar rule to ensure clear and effective communication. Using the correct article enhances the credibility and understandability of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cross

Corrects the article from "an" to "a" to match the consonant sound of "cross".

one cross

Replaces the article with the numeral "one" for emphasis or clarity.

the cross

Uses the definite article "the" to refer to a specific cross already mentioned or known.

any cross

Indicates that any cross would suffice, emphasizing lack of specificity.

each cross

Highlights individual crosses within a group.

every cross

Similar to each cross; emphasizes inclusivity and generality.

some crosses

Refers to more than one cross, indicating plurality.

several crosses

Synonymous with some crosses, implies an indefinite number.

various crosses

Indicates different types or styles of crosses.

multiple crosses

Refers to a number of crosses.

FAQs

Why is it incorrect to say "an cross"?

The article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound, while "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound. "Cross" starts with a consonant sound, so the correct article is "a", making "a cross" the grammatically correct phrase.

What article should I use before words starting with 'cr'?

Words starting with "cr" generally begin with a consonant sound. Therefore, you should use the article "a", such as in "a crane", "a crow", or "a cross".

Is there a situation where "an" would be used before a word starting with 'c'?

It's rare, but if a word starting with 'c' is abbreviated and the abbreviation starts with a vowel sound, "an" would be appropriate. For example, "an MRI scan" because "MRI" is pronounced with an initial vowel sound.

What are some other examples of correct article usage?

Correct usage includes "a dog", "an apple", "a house", and "an umbrella". Pay attention to the initial sound, not just the letter.