a case for

USAGE SUMMARY

"a case for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an argument or set of facts put forward in support of a particular point of view. For example, "The court heard a case for the defense that the accused was wrongfully convicted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"They have a case for it.

The New York Times - Sports

The movie makes a case for both.

The New Yorker

Posada will have a case for Cooperstown.

The New York Times - Sports

JOE WEISENTHAL makes a case for protectionism.

The Economist

A case for renationalisation?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

There is a case for intervention.

The Guardian

"We've already got a case for you".

The New Yorker

Is there a case for fundamental reform?

The Guardian

This is a case for PAW.

The New York Times - Magazine

Surely a case for an umbrella group?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a case…for an Apple TV.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a case for", clearly state the subject you are supporting with specific evidence or reasoning to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "a case for" when the evidence is weak or speculative. Ensure that the supporting facts are verifiable and logically connected to avoid undermining your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a case for" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a noun or noun phrase, indicating the subject or topic being argued for or supported. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to present arguments or justifications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a case for" is a versatile phrase used to introduce arguments or justifications for a particular subject. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable, as evidenced by its frequent usage in diverse sources such as news media and wiki articles. The phrase carries a neutral tone, making it appropriate for formal and informal contexts alike. When employing "a case for", it's crucial to present well-supported evidence to strengthen your argument and avoid overstating the strength of your evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the argument for

Directly refers to the presentation of a case or viewpoint.

reasons for

Highlights the rationale behind a decision or action.

rationale behind

Focuses on the underlying logic or principles.

justification for

Emphasizes the act of showing something to be right or reasonable.

grounds for

Indicates the basis or foundation for a belief or action.

the need for

Stresses the importance or necessity of something.

arguments supporting

Focuses on the arguments themselves rather than the act of making a case.

defense of

Implies a more active protection or support of something.

advocacy for

Implies a public endorsement or support.

plea for

Suggests a more urgent or emotional appeal.

FAQs

How can I use "a case for" in a sentence?

You can use "a case for" to introduce an argument or justification for something. For example, "The lawyer presented "a case for" his client's innocence".

What are some alternatives to saying "a case for"?

Alternatives include "reasons for", "justification for", or "the argument for", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a case for" in formal writing?

Yes, "a case for" is suitable for formal writing, especially when presenting arguments or making reasoned appeals. It is commonly found in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.

What's the difference between "a case for" and "a reason for"?

"A case for" often implies a more structured and detailed argument, while "a reason for" simply suggests a cause or explanation. The choice depends on the depth of justification you intend to provide.