"for a vacation" vs "for vacation"

Question

"for a vacation" vs "for vacation"

Both 'for vacation' and 'for a vacation' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'For vacation' is more commonly used in American English, where 'vacation' is often used as a mass noun. On the other hand, 'for a vacation' is more common in British English, where 'vacation' is treated as a countable noun. The choice between the two depends on the variety of English being used.

Last Updated: March 28, 2024

This phrase is commonly used in British English to indicate the purpose of taking a specific, countable vacation.

Examples:

They are going to Spain for a vacation.
She booked a cruise for a vacation.
He took his family to the mountains for a vacation.
We are planning for a vacation in the summer.
I need to save money for a vacation.

Alternatives:

for vacation
on vacation
during vacation
while on vacation
taking a vacation

This phrase is commonly used in American English to indicate the purpose of taking time off from work or school.

Examples:

I'm going to Hawaii for vacation.
She always travels to Europe for vacation.
They closed the office for vacation.
He saved up money for vacation.
We need to plan for vacation next year.

Alternatives:

for a vacation
on vacation
during vacation
while on vacation
taking a vacation

Answer 1

for a vacation

This phrase is correct, especially in British English, where 'vacation' is treated as a countable noun.

Answer 2

for vacation

This phrase is correct, especially in American English, where 'vacation' is often used as a mass noun.

"for a vacation" vs "for vacation"

for a vacation

for vacation

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