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Can you please tell me which one is correct: do something via Google Meet video call or do something via a Google Meet video call? For example:

I can show you how to install the software via (a) Google Meet video call.

I've noticed that when the type of video call isn't specified, then a is omitted. But what about when the medium of a video call is specified, like in my sentence, is the indefinite article needed?

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    Using “via a” is awkward to say, so “via” is often used without “a”. Using “a” would specify that only one video call would take place; leaving it out leaves the number of calls open and just specifies a method.
    – Peter
    Commented Oct 28, 2022 at 12:44

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Your sentence needs an article, either a or the, because the noun is call, which is used here as both a countable and a singular noun.

The principle at play is that singular countable nouns always need some sort of article.

To understand why the noun call is singular and countable, see here.

To understand why such nouns always need an article, see here.

The correct sentence is: I can show you how to install the software via a Google Meet video call.

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  • "They will arrive via automobile." Correct or incorrect? And, "they will arrive via a car"? "they will arrive via the car"?
    – BadZen
    Commented Aug 3, 2023 at 3:11
  • (MW use example for via: "Parking is available via seasonal permit for both residents and non-residents, or a $35 daily pass.")
    – BadZen
    Commented Aug 3, 2023 at 3:13

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