During (the) holidays

[Veron1]

Hi Teachers

When I was a child I used to go to the library during (the) holidays


Do I have to add (the) here?
If yes or no ,why?


Thanks teachers

I.A

[Tdol]

If you're referring to the school holidays, then use the article.

[Veron1]

Tdol, could you please explain it to me further?
Why and when we use the article and why and when we don't use it?

Thanks again

I.A

[RonBee]

Why and when we use the article and why and when we don't use it?

Question: Why and when do we use the article and why and when do we not use it?
Answer: Hey, what happened to the question about the holidays?


Apparently, it is a set phrase and it is always used that way. Examples:

the Christmas holidays (or "the holidays")
the school holidays (or "the holidays")

For more commentary about the use of the definite article (the),go to Frequently Asked Questions and find the thread titled definite article.

~R

[Soup]

Why and when we use the article and why and when we don't use it?

It's more than "a set phrase", though.


The fact of the matter is, there is more than one holiday, so the is used to define or specify which holiday. If you're talking about taking time off, then use holiday.

A: When are you leaving?
B: I'm going on the holiday(s). <a known holiday or holidays>

A: Where are you going?
B: I'm going on holiday(s). <time off>

[Veron1]

Thanks


I.A