What is the difference in English meaning between a and

The difference between "a" and "an" in English is based on sound, not just the letter that follows.

* "A" is used before words that start with a consonant sound. This includes words that begin with a vowel letter but have a consonant sound, like "university" (pronounced "yoo-ni-ver-si-tee").

* "An" is used before words that start with a vowel sound. This includes words that begin with a consonant letter but have a vowel sound, like "hour" (pronounced "ow-er").

Examples:

* A cat

* An apple

* A university

* An honor

* A one-way street

* An umbrella

Remember: It's the sound of the word that determines whether you use "a" or "an."