a substantial case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant or important argument, situation, or legal matter that has considerable weight or impact. Example: "The lawyer presented a substantial case that highlighted the flaws in the prosecution's argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"I think we have a substantial case".

The New York Times

And plaintiff has made a "substantial case on the merits" of his appeal.

The New York Times

For these reasons and in these circumstances, we believe that plaintiff has presented a substantial case on the merits.

The New York Times

The ruling describes a "substantial" case for concern about human-induced global warming that the EPA amassed.

The Washington Post

Instead, where the "balance of the equities weighs heavily in favor of granting the [injunction]" the movant need only show a "substantial case on the merits".

The New York Times

Exactingly annotated by Amy C. Beal, a scholar and writer, and handsomely packaged, this collection makes a substantial case for Cunningham as a vital force in modern music.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The CPS letter to the family stated: "As you will be aware this is a very substantial case with a significant quantity of third-party material in addition to the IPCC case file and the enquiry report.

The Guardian

"They complain the media spends too much time reporting on Jubilee celebrations, but what else are they supposed to do? "There's a very substantial case for a republic, but unfortunately the organisation Republic trivialises it".

BBC

She urged any other women who were assaulted by Cosby in New Jersey to come forward in order to build a more substantial case against him.

Huffington Post

The persistence of the rumours and the steadily growing number of sources of allegations has shifted the claims from the realms of conspiracy theory into a much more substantial case.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It may be a circumstantial case and, for all I know, not a substantial circumstantial case".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial case" when you want to convey that the matter at hand is not trivial and carries significant weight.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial case" in very informal settings; it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler language such as "a good point" or "a strong reason" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial case" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object or complement in a sentence. It describes something of significant importance or weight, supported by considerable evidence or reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a substantial case" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is employed to emphasize the significance and weight of an argument, situation, or legal matter. While versatile, it's most appropriate in formal contexts like news reports, scientific studies, and business communications. When writing, remember that less formal alternatives like "a strong argument" or "a good reason" may be more suitable for casual conversation. The phrase's consistent use across authoritative sources ensures its reliability and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong argument

Uses "strong" instead of "substantial", emphasizing the robustness of the argument.

a considerable argument

Replaces "case" with "argument" focusing on the reasoning presented.

a well-founded claim

Highlights that the claim is built on a solid foundation.

a significant matter

Substitutes "case" with "matter", highlighting the importance of the issue.

a solid defense

Emphasizes the resilience and protective quality of the case presented.

a compelling situation

Replaces "case" with "situation", suggesting a scenario that is convincing or persuasive.

a convincing presentation

Highlights that something has been presented with convincing effect.

a weighty issue

Replaces both words, focusing on the seriousness and importance.

a tenable position

Highlights that the case or position presented is maintainable and defensible.

a meritorious suit

A more formal and legalistic substitution for "a substantial case".

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial case" to describe a situation where there is a significant amount of evidence or reason to support a particular claim or argument. For example: "The lawyer presented "a substantial case" for the defendant's innocence".

What is a synonym for "a substantial case"?

Synonyms for "a substantial case" include "a strong argument", "a significant matter", or "a well-founded claim". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a substantial case" or "a strong case"?

Both "a substantial case" and "a strong case" are grammatically correct and can often be used interchangeably. "Substantial" emphasizes the amount of evidence or the importance of the issue, while "strong" emphasizes the persuasiveness of the argument.

In what contexts is "a substantial case" most appropriate?

"A substantial case" is suitable in formal contexts such as legal, academic, or professional settings, where a significant or well-supported argument is being presented. It's less common in informal conversation.