"is a part of" or "is part of"

[nq:1]"is a part of" or "is part of": which is correct?[/nq]
I prefer the former, as in "Holland is a part of the Netherlands." But "Holland is part of the Netherlands" seems just as clear.

[nq:1]"is a part of" or "is part of": which is correct? Q.[/nq]
Without a specific context, both are. Using or not using the indefinite article could be a matter of style, or avoiding awkwardness. The parts of speech are like variables in an equation, and within certain parameters can be manipulated in endless variation.
Try this:

[nq:2]"is a part of" or "is part of": which is correct? Q.[/nq]
[nq:1]Without a specific context, both are. Using or not using the indefinite article could be a matter of style, or avoiding awkwardness. The parts of speech are like variables in an equation, and within certain parameters can be manipulated in endless variation. Try this:

[nq:2]Without a specific context, both are. Using or not using ... certain parameterscan be manipulated in endless variation. Try this: http://www.usingenglish.com/glossary/indefinite-article.html[/nq]
[nq:1]Robert could have written this. Maybe we need a replacement for Robert.[/nq]

[nq:1]Without a specific context, both are. Using or not using the indefinite article could be a matter of style, or avoiding awkwardness.[/nq]
When is it that you should say 'a part' or 'part'? How do you make a difference in using either of the two? How should I understand the 'matter of style or awkwardness' you mentioned? Is it, for example, awkward, if I say, 'Holland is part of the Nethe