a different case

USAGE SUMMARY

"a different case" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a different context, situation, or example from what has previously been discussed. For example, "We've already looked at several examples, but this is a different case altogether."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Motorola is a different case.

The New York Times

Libya was a different case.

The New York Times

Flintoff's a different case.

The Guardian - Sport

Across the hall was a different case.

The New York Times - Health

Iran may be a different case.

The New York Times

Esa-Pekka Salonen is a different case.

The New Yorker

But his family is a different case.

The Economist

The banks are a different case.

The New Yorker

"Every single case is a different case.

The New York Times

Comedy is a different case.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Vincenzo is a different case.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a different case" to clearly signal a shift in focus or perspective, ensuring your audience understands you're moving on to a new example or situation. This helps prevent confusion and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a different case" simply to add variety to your writing. Ensure there's a genuine, significant distinction between the cases you're comparing; otherwise, it may come across as repetitive or unnecessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a different case" primarily functions as a transitional phrase or idiomatic expression, used to introduce a contrasting scenario or example. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase appears in a variety of contexts, serving to distinguish one situation from another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a different case" is a versatile phrase used to introduce contrasting situations or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. Its primary function is to signal a shift in focus, helping to clarify distinctions and introduce new perspectives. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's essential to use it judiciously, ensuring a genuine and significant contrast between the cases being presented. Alternatives like "a separate situation" or "another circumstance" can offer subtle variations in emphasis, while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a separate situation

Emphasizes the distinct nature of the situation, focusing on its independence from others.

another circumstance

Highlights that the context or conditions surrounding something are not the same.

a distinct scenario

Focuses on the unique set of events or circumstances that define the situation.

an alternative instance

Suggests a choice between two or more possibilities, with this being a different option.

a unique example

Highlights the singular or rare characteristics of the example.

a contrasting event

Draws attention to the differences between this event and others.

a divergent matter

Indicates that the subject at hand is heading in a different direction or is fundamentally dissimilar.

a dissimilar occurrence

Emphasizes the lack of similarity between this occurrence and others.

a varying condition

Stresses that the state or circumstances are not constant and differ from others.

a deviating instance

Highlights a departure from the norm or expected pattern.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a different case" in a sentence?

Use "a different case" to introduce a new perspective, scenario, or example that contrasts with what was previously discussed. It helps in making comparisons and drawing distinctions. For instance, "While the first example showed success, this is "a different case" due to unforeseen circumstances".

What are some alternatives to using "a different case"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a separate situation", "another circumstance", or "a distinct scenario" to convey a similar meaning but with a slightly different emphasis.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state "a different case" when shifting topics?

No, it's not always necessary. Sometimes, the shift in topic can be implied through context or transitional phrases. However, explicitly stating "a different case" can provide clarity, especially when the distinction isn't immediately obvious.

How does "a different case" differ from "a similar case"?

"A different case" indicates a contrast or distinction between two situations, while "a similar case" suggests a comparison or resemblance. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize differences or similarities.