is on vacation

USAGE SUMMARY

"is on vacation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone taking time off from work or school. For example: "My boss is on vacation this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Machu Picchu is "on vacation," declared Martín Pérez, the tourism minister.This ought to be an opportunity.

The Economist

House is on vacation.

The New York Times

He is on vacation.

The New Yorker

Peter Catapano is on vacation.

The New York Times

Your lawyer is on vacation.

The New York Times

[Brooklyn Paper] Clyde Haberman is on vacation.

The New York Times

[Gothamist] Clyde Haberman is on vacation.

The New York Times

[Brownstoner] Clyde Haberman is on vacation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

We were on vacation.

The New York Times

We're on vacation".

The New Yorker

"I'm on vacation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is on vacation", specify the duration or reason for the vacation if relevant to provide more context. For example, "He is on vacation for two weeks to visit family."

Common error

Avoid using "on vacation" in highly formal business communications where a more professional term like "on leave" or "out of office" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on vacation" functions as a predicate nominative, describing the state or condition of the subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. It connects the subject with a noun phrase indicating a temporary absence from regular duties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Wiki

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is on vacation" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone is taking time off from their usual activities for leisure or rest. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, consider using more formal alternatives like "on leave" or "out of office" in professional settings. Remember to provide additional context, such as the duration or reason for the vacation, to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is on holiday

Uses "holiday", which is more common in British English.

is taking a break

Focuses on the temporary cessation of work or routine activities.

is off work

Specifies absence from the workplace, not necessarily implying leisure.

is out of office

Primarily used in professional settings to indicate temporary unavailability.

is enjoying some time off

Emphasizes the pleasurable aspect of the time away from usual duties.

is away on leave

Implies an authorized absence, possibly for personal or professional development.

is currently on leave

Formal way to indicate a temporary absence from duty.

is resting and relaxing

Highlights the restorative purpose of the time off.

is not working at the moment

A general way to express that someone is currently not engaged in work.

is having a sabbatical

Refers to a longer period of leave, often for study or research.

FAQs

What does "is on vacation" mean?

The phrase "is on vacation" means that someone is taking time off from work or their usual activities for leisure, travel, or rest.

What can I say instead of "is on vacation"?

You can use alternatives like "is taking a break", "is off work", or "is on holiday" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "on vacation" or "on a vacation"?

"On vacation" is the correct and more common usage. "On a vacation" is grammatically correct but less frequently used.

How do I use "is on vacation" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe someone's current status, like "My boss is on vacation this week", or to explain why someone is unavailable, such as "He is on vacation and will respond to your email next week".