Dear Slayer,
 
Why is it that people say “an historic” instead of “a historic?” It sounds both pretentious and stupid and it drives me out of my mind whenever I hear it in the media. Please tell me I’m not the only one!
 
Max
 
Doraville, GA

The usage of “an historic” is used when the “H” is not pronounced. For example, honest, honor, or hour.

When people say “an historic” and pronounce the “H”, they have gotten it wrong. It should sound “an ‘istoric occasion…”

The use of “a historic” has come about because many earthers do not teach proper English.

For instance, here is a site that justifies the use of ”a historic” because there are more uses of it found on Google. This proves the Internet has made everyone stupid. 

Many will refer to “modern English” as if they have discovered a new way to speak, when in reality, they are just too lazy to learn the proper way.

I remember having this discussion with a school teacher whose home we were raiding. I shouted out “Men! This raid is an historic occasion.”

She fired back “A historic occasion. You should use the modern vernacular.”

Jim lept in forward and tackled her while shouting ”You sow! We speak ”an” vernacular of death!”

She died painfully.

So, the rule is:

Speak how you wish, but do not excuse your low bred vocabulary by saying you are “modern.”