A few years ago, the media seemed to collectively decide that it was proper to say “an historic” rather than “a historic.” Of course, we use the word “an” when the following word starts with a vowel — that is, a vowel sound. Those saying, “We are witnessing an historic event,” were hoping to sound more sophisticated that those who dare to say, “This is a historic event.” I don’t know who they were trying to impress, but it certainly wasn’t intended to make English teachers happy. The word “historic” always starts with a consonant sound unless the speaker has a Cockney accent.
Since then, the media has reversed their opinion on the matter for the most part.
What about Iran? Years ago, everyone said eye-RAN. The people who live there were eye-RAY-knee-uns. Now it’s e-RON. Sometimes the people who live there are e-RON-ee-uns. I can’t get used to the sound of that word. The media hasn’t come to a conclusion on this issue yet; I’ve heard interviews on NPR where it goes back and forth between the two pronunciations.
It’s cognitive dissonance at its most literal meaning.
Also: Student’s rampage leaves 10 dead. Worst school shooting since Columbine. (I used to have photos at that link, but they have since disappeared.)
Yeah. I’m gonna spell my name “Susan” but pronounce it “Bob”.