a cautionary case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cautionary case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an example or situation that serves as a warning or lesson about potential risks or consequences. Example: "The study presented a cautionary case about the dangers of ignoring climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Libya has become a cautionary case.

The New Yorker

Among other things "Beautiful Darling" is a cautionary case study of the lust for fame as compensation for an emptiness that nothing can fill.

The New York Times

A cautionary case is Herceptin, a Genentech breast cancer drug that is considered the archetype of personalized medicine because it works only for women whose tumors have a particular genetic characteristic.

The New York Times

A companion study to the I.M.F.'s recent report provided a cautionary case study: what happened in Britain from 1918 to 1933, when the country put in place spending cuts and tax increases as it grappled with debts it took on during World War I.

The New York Times

Although its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp didn't cause much of a stir at the time, today these deals are seen as a cautionary case for current and future antitrust regulators.

TechCrunch

The multipronged battle has transformed the sleepy suburb into a cautionary case study for other California water suppliers coping with a decrease in water sales during drought.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

He invoked the Duke lacrosse case as a cautionary example of due process succumbing to the passions of a community inflamed.

The New Yorker

China is a cautionary example.

The New Yorker

South America is a cautionary example.

Forbes

Yet the cautionary case of Alexis Smith illuminates how events can conspire to rob even seemingly well-established figures not only of critical attention but also of public exposure.

The New York Times - Arts

The carpet is laid, the lamps are lit and the sharpshooters have taken up their positions on the rooftops overlooking the Kodak theatre (presumably just a cautionary measure, in case Mickey Rourke gets too lary).

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cautionary case" when you want to highlight a specific situation or example that serves as a warning to others. It's more focused on the instance itself than a broader 'tale'.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a cautionary case" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a warning" or "a lesson learned" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cautionary case" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a particular instance or situation that provides a warning or lesson. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cautionary case" is a noun phrase used to describe a specific situation that serves as a warning or lesson. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, mainly in news and scientific publications. While it can be used more broadly, it's useful to consider alternatives in informal settings, such as "a warning example" or "an object lesson" to avoid sounding overly formal. When employing this phrase, ensure that the case clearly illustrates the potential risks or negative outcomes it aims to prevent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cautionary tale

Implies a narrative or story format to convey the warning.

a warning example

Emphasizes the warning aspect rather than the specific instance.

an object lesson

Highlights the instructive nature of the example.

a grim reminder

Emphasizes the somber aspect of the warning.

a prime example of what not to do

Clearly states the negative outcome to be avoided.

a telling illustration

Focuses on the revealing nature of the example.

a classic instance of

Highlights the typicality of the situation as a warning.

a worrying development

Focuses on the concerning nature of the situation.

an alarming situation

Highlights the alarming aspect and potential danger.

a regrettable incident

Emphasizes the unfortunate nature and the lessons learned.

FAQs

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

You can use "a cautionary case" to introduce an example that warns against a particular course of action. For example, "The company's failed expansion serves as "a cautionary case" for other businesses considering rapid growth".

What are some alternatives to "a cautionary case"?

Some alternatives include "a warning example", "a cautionary tale", or "an object lesson", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a cautionary case" formal or informal?

"A cautionary case" leans towards formal usage. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "a warning" or "something to watch out for".

What is the difference between "a cautionary case" and "a cautionary tale"?

"A cautionary case" typically refers to a specific instance or situation. "A cautionary tale" often implies a narrative or story, making it broader and more illustrative.