'an MP3' or 'a MP3'

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Dear Alan,

I’m wondering why English people say ‘an MP3’ and not ‘a MP3’? Why “an” is used for abbreviations? there is no vowel before that.

Best

2

the answer is simple, it’s easier to pronounce an mp3 than a mp3

3

Th initial sound is “em” – when you say it, the words are like it’s spelled em pee three player.
Although it’s not a vowel, it has the SOUND of a vowel, so we use an.

Another common example would be “an hour.” Because the h is (at least mostly) silent, the word is like “our.”

4

I was knowing that. Thanks everyone.

5

Thanks alot Jim Jim. Your reply was very helpful :slight_smile: