a separate case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate case" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means a distinct or individual situation or instance that is different or separate from others. Example: The defendant argued that his case should be considered as a separate case from the others, as he had a valid alibi for the night of the crime.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ireland is a separate case.

Independent

That could be a separate case.

The New York Times - Sports

Clark is in federal custody in a separate case.

The New York Times

He carried his sword in a separate case.

The New Yorker

The authors do not each write about a separate case.

The Economist

A fourth al-Jazeera reporter, Abdullah Elshamy, is yet to be charged in a separate case.

The Guardian

His finding was upheld by the Supreme Court, in a separate case.

The New York Times

On Thursday, Egyptian judicial authorities extended Mursi's detention period for 30 days in a separate case.

The Guardian

In a separate case, a baby died under unexplained circumstances in Queens.

The New York Times

He is also suing Pfizer for wrongful termination in a separate case.

The New York Times

He is charged with crimes against humanity in a separate case.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a separate case", ensure the context makes it clear what the original case is for comparison. Provide enough information for the reader to understand the distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "a separate case" when you mean "in any case". "A separate case" refers to a distinct situation, while "in any case" is used to introduce a statement that is true regardless of what has been said before.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a separate case" is to act as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or an object in a sentence, identifying or referring to a particular instance that is distinct from others. This is supported by Ludwig examples where it's used to differentiate legal situations or incidents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a separate case" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a distinct and unrelated situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Academia", it serves to differentiate specific instances, ensuring clarity and avoiding confusion. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly defines both the original and the separate cases. Be mindful not to confuse it with "in any case", which has a different meaning. This guide provides practical tips and alternatives to enhance your writing and understanding of this common phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct situation

Focuses on the uniqueness and individuality of the scenario.

an unrelated incident

Highlights the lack of connection to a previous event.

a different matter

Emphasizes the change in subject or issue under consideration.

an independent affair

Stresses the self-contained nature of the event or situation.

a discrete instance

Highlights the clear boundaries and separateness of the occurrence.

a divergent circumstance

Underlines the differing aspects and conditions of the situation.

an isolated event

Indicates that the event occurred alone and without connection.

a unique occurrence

Highlights the unusual or rare nature of the event.

a singular happening

Stresses the distinct and individual nature of the event.

another instance

Simply refers to another occurrence without necessarily implying complete separation.

FAQs

How to use "a separate case" in a sentence?

Use "a separate case" to indicate a distinct situation or legal matter, as in, "While John was convicted of theft, his assault charge was considered "a separate case"".

What can I say instead of "a separate case"?

You can use alternatives like "a distinct situation", "an unrelated incident", or "a different matter" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a separate case" or "separate case"?

"A separate case" is grammatically correct. Omitting the article "a" makes the phrase sound incomplete and less formal.

What's the difference between "a separate case" and "a specific case"?

"A separate case" highlights the distinction from another case, while "a specific case" emphasizes a particular instance within a larger context.