a case of whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a case of whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or scenario that involves a decision or consideration about a particular issue or condition. Example: "This is a case of whether we should proceed with the project despite the risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

It is not a case of whether it is better.

Independent

It was just a case of whether she wanted to do it.

The Guardian - Film

It's a case of whether you want to do it or not".

Independent

"That's been a case of whether we're going to lose any players or not.

Independent

It may not be a case of whether future generations remember him, rather, whether they'll forgive him.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's just a case of whether we have the same hunger in us to do that again.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

In the heyday of John Hughes – may he rest in peace – it was more a case of debating whether going out with someone meant compromising your social standing.

The Guardian - Film

Nair, significantly, found that the state had at least arrived at a "threshold" for bringing a case of premeditation, whether or not it would prevail.

The New Yorker

It's what the technology now allows, so it's just a case of seeing whether the film industry and actors will go down that path".

The Guardian

Guilt or innocence is not, as many would have it, simply a case of knowing whether you did the act alleged.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are not here considering the question whether mouse trap history is in fact a case of evolution, but whether it cannot be evolutionary in principle, as Behe (1996) claimed.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a case of whether", ensure that the 'whether' clause is clear and concise, directly stating the condition that influences the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "a case of whether" when simply stating a fact or observation. This phrase introduces a conditional scenario, not a certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a case of whether" functions as an introductory phrase to a conditional statement. Ludwig examples show it sets the stage for scenarios where the outcome is contingent on a specific condition being met. It introduces an element of uncertainty or choice.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a case of whether" is a useful phrase for introducing conditional scenarios or decision points. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it's frequently found in news and media, functioning to frame discussions where the outcome depends on a specific condition. While grammatically correct and versatile, ensure it's used appropriately to introduce conditional statements rather than declarative facts. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and suitability for a variety of contexts, particularly in neutral and professional registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of whether

Replaces "case" with "question", emphasizing the aspect of inquiry or doubt.

a matter of whether

Substitutes "case" with "matter", focusing on the significance or relevance of the condition.

a situation of whether

Replaces "case" with "situation", highlighting the specific circumstances under consideration.

an instance of whether

Uses "instance" instead of "case", suggesting a specific occurrence or example.

a determination of whether

Focuses on the act of deciding or concluding about the condition.

a test of whether

Highlights an evaluation or experiment to ascertain the truth or validity of something.

dependent on whether

Indicates that something is contingent upon a particular condition.

contingent on whether

Similar to "dependent on whether", suggesting reliance on a condition.

hinges on whether

Emphasizes that the outcome is entirely dependent on the specified condition.

revolves around whether

Suggests that the central issue or focus is the specified condition.

FAQs

How can I use "a case of whether" in a sentence?

Use "a case of whether" to introduce a situation where the outcome depends on a particular condition or choice. For instance, "It's "a case of whether" we can secure funding before the project deadline."

What are some alternatives to "a case of whether"?

You can use alternatives like "a question of whether", "a matter of whether", or "dependent on whether" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "a case of whether"?

Yes, it would be incorrect to use "a case of whether" if you are not presenting a conditional scenario or a situation where a decision depends on a specific factor. It should not be used to state a simple fact.

What's the difference between "a case of whether" and "dependent on whether"?

"A case of whether" introduces a situation, while "dependent on whether" directly states that one thing is reliant on another. The former sets up a scenario; the latter indicates a direct dependency.