a substantive case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantive case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a case that has significant substance or importance, often in legal, academic, or analytical contexts. Example: "The lawyer presented a substantive case that highlighted the key issues at hand, making it difficult for the jury to ignore the evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"Predominantly my line is, if they are due to go before a board and it is a substantive case, they go before a board.

Independent

The most remarkable thing about the case is that this is the first in which this shadowy tribunal held a public hearing to consider a substantive case.

The Guardian - Opinion

But he winds up making a substantive case for the way that Eisenhower, the World War II Allied forces' supreme commander and one of the greatest shoo-ins in American electoral history, brought his military instincts from the battlefield to the White House.

The New York Times - Books

By dominating the screen and making a substantive case, Biden ultimately triumphed over his youthful co-star.

Huffington Post

Republicans are dismissing the Democrats' complaints as simply picking a fight over process where they lack a substantive case to end the investigation.

Los Angeles Times

By raising the issues that Barack Obama failed to raise in the first debate, Biden laid out a substantive case for the Democrats.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But he also needs to make a more substantive case for giving him a second term.

The New Yorker

The Democrats, in turn, said the Republicans were arguing about arcane rules and procedures because they could not make a cogent, substantive case against the legislation.

The New York Times - Health

But while readers will admire Dionne's intellectual dexterity in diagnosing the historical origins of our present political problem of division and dysfunction, they may also wish he could make a more substantive case for how we might move beyond it.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Dann said in a conference call with reporters that Mr. Charles's report was littered with innuendo and did not document any substantive cases in which he had broken the law.

The New York Times

Liberals have long complained that the right overwhelms them with personal attacks and vicious allegations, while the left tries, naïvely, to make a more noble and substantive case.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantive case", ensure that you can provide concrete details and evidence to support the claim. Avoid making vague or unsubstantiated assertions.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantive case" when the matter at hand is trivial or lacks significant supporting evidence. Using it inappropriately can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantive case" typically functions as a noun phrase, with "substantive" modifying the noun "case". It describes a particular instance or situation that has considerable importance, merit, or factual basis. As evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase is used to denote a case with significant content and supporting evidence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantive case" is a phrase used to describe a situation that carries significant importance, factual weight, and supporting evidence. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and finds its primary usage in news and media, legal, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the case you are describing indeed has significant merit and evidence. Alternatives like "a compelling case" or "a well-founded argument" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember, overstating the substantiveness of a case can diminish credibility, so use it judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a compelling case

Emphasizes the persuasive and convincing nature of the case.

a well-founded argument

Focuses on the strength and validity of the argument being presented.

a solid legal argument

Specifically highlights the legal aspect and the robustness of the argument.

a well-supported position

Emphasizes that the viewpoint is backed by sufficient evidence and reasoning.

a significant legal matter

Shifts the focus to the importance and consequence of the legal situation.

a considerable body of evidence

Stresses the amount and weight of evidence supporting the case.

a substantial issue

Focuses on the importance and size of the matter at hand.

a meritorious claim

Highlights that the claim has merit and is worthy of consideration.

a defensible thesis

Highlights that the main argument or proposition can be defended against criticism.

a demonstrable instance

Stresses that the case can be clearly and convincingly demonstrated.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantive case" when referring to a situation where a claim, argument, or legal matter has significant supporting evidence and importance. For example, "The lawyer presented "a substantive case", highlighting key pieces of evidence and witness testimonies."

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

Alternatives include "a compelling case", "a well-founded argument", or "a significant legal matter", depending on the specific context.

What makes a case "substantive"?

A case is considered "substantive" when it involves important issues, has significant evidence to support its claims, and potentially has far-reaching consequences. It is not merely a matter of procedure or form, but one with real weight and importance.

Is there a difference between "a procedural case" and "a substantive case"?

Yes. A procedural case deals with the technical or administrative aspects of a legal proceeding, whereas "a substantive case" concerns the actual facts and merits of the matter in dispute.