a voluntary service vs an voluntary service

The correct phrase is 'a voluntary service.' The use of 'a' is correct because the word 'voluntary' starts with a consonant sound, so 'a' is used before it. 'An' is used before words that start with a vowel sound.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 569 views

This phrase is correct. 'A' is used before words that start with a consonant sound.

"a voluntary service "

Use 'a' before words that start with a consonant sound, like 'voluntary.' This helps with the flow of the sentence.

Examples:

She signed up for a voluntary service at the local shelter.
He offered a voluntary service to help with the community project.

Show examples from the web [+]

Mr President, is a voluntary service still a valid proposition in our society?
Yet, despite that, the need is still felt, since we are creating a voluntary service at European level and the number of young candidates far outweighs the number of opportunities available.
of a voluntary service open to all, unpaid, freely undertaken, educational (non-formal learning aspect) and bringing added social value;
an economic activity in an employed or self-employed capacity, or to perform a voluntary service, or to study
encouraging solidarity through the promotion of a voluntary service for young people aged 18 to 25, -encouraging the participation of young people in the construction of Europe through youth exchanges and, finally, -encouraging a spirit of enterprise and creativity amongst young people.
Ensure the possibility for manufacturers to get pre-launch advice, as a voluntary service to companies, in advance of marketing a product or investing in a product, as well as the possibility to get advice on marketing campaigns before their actual launch.

Alternatives:

a service that is voluntary
a service offered voluntarily
a service provided on a voluntary basis
a service that relies on volunteers
a service that depends on volunteers

This phrase is incorrect. 'An' is used before words that start with a vowel sound, not a consonant sound like 'voluntary.'

"an voluntary service "

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

a voluntary service vs an voluntary service