an list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an list" is not correct in written English.
It should be "a list" because "list" begins with a consonant sound. Example: "Please provide a list of items needed for the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In January this year, El Pais newspaper published an list of alleged illegal payments within the party.

BBC

But their only warm-up one-day match before the One Day International series against England starts on Monday will not count as an List A win because India were given permission to use their whole squad in the field.

BBC

These complaints will be used to produce an list of "persistent offenders" (subscribers who had received more than, say, 50 complaints about them) which will be made available on request to the copyright owners.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"A list?" "A list.

BMC Medical Education

Video: A-List Stars Get Animated.

Forbes

It was A-list.

Vice

Make a list... a bucket list or a shopping list!

WikiHow

A List is a List.

WikiHow

Bork has a list.

The New York Times

Make a list.

The New York Times

(Vox has a list).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "a list" instead of "an list". The article 'a' is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

Common error

Avoid using "an" before words starting with a consonant sound. Remember that "an" is used before vowel sounds, not just vowels.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an list" is grammatically incorrect and does not serve a standard function in English. According to Ludwig, the correct form is "a list".

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 list" is grammatically incorrect in English. The correct form is "a list", as the article "a" should be used before words that begin with a consonant sound. Ludwig confirms this assessment. While there are various alternatives to the word "list", such as "catalog" or "roster", the most immediate correction is to use the proper article. Remembering this rule will help ensure clarity and accuracy in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A list

Corrects the grammatical error by using the appropriate article.

A catalog

Implies a more structured and comprehensive listing.

A roster

Suggests a list of names, often in a specific order.

An index

Refers to an alphabetical listing, typically found at the end of a book.

A schedule

Indicates a list of events or activities planned for a specific time.

A record

Emphasizes a list that serves as documentation or evidence.

A directory

Implies a list of contact details or information.

A registry

Suggests a formal or official list.

A compilation

Refers to a list that has been gathered from different sources.

An inventory

Indicates a list of items in stock or possession.

FAQs

Which is correct, "a list" or "an list"?

"A list" is the correct form. The article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound, while "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

When should I use "a" vs "an"?

Use "a" before words starting with a consonant sound (e.g., "a book", "a car"). Use "an" before words starting with a vowel sound (e.g., "an apple", "an hour"). It's about the sound, not just the letter.

What are some alternatives to "a list"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a catalog", "a roster", or "an index".

How can I remember when to use "a" or "an"?

Think about the sound that follows the article. If it's a vowel sound, use "an"; otherwise, use "a". For example, "an umbrella" (vowel sound) versus "a university" (consonant sound despite the vowel letter).