in line/ in a line

[Bolo]

hello,

I think I've come across two phrases - 'to stand in line' and 'to stand in a line'.

When do we use each of them?( I mean when 'a' is needed and when it is not). Could you explain the difference and give some examples?

Thank you.

[Marylin]

hello,

I think I've come across two phrases - 'to stand in line' and 'to stand in a line'.

When do we use each of them?( I mean when 'a' is needed and when it is not). Could you explain the difference and give some examples?

Thank you.

In line is use when you 're waiting behind others in a row, eg. in a supermarket waiting to have your goods tallied up or waiting to buy a ticket in a movie theater, etc.
For everything else you're OK to put a in front of line.

ex.

OK, grade 1 and grade 2, before we leave for our little trip, I want you to pair up and stand in a line right outside the main door, please.