a unique case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a unique case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or instance that is distinct or different from others, often implying that it requires special consideration. Example: "This is a unique case that warrants further investigation due to its unusual circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sadly, this is not a unique case.

Independent

Jaroben's is not a unique case.

The Guardian

It wasn't a unique case.

The Guardian

"Syria is a unique case.

The Guardian

"He is a unique case.

The New York Times - Magazine

And he is not a unique case.

The Guardian - Arts

This is not a unique case.

The New York Times

And it is not a unique case.

The Guardian

It was "a unique case," the official said.

The New York Times

He said: "In terms of generosity, Harvard is a unique case.

The Guardian

So it plays a different role in the Indian psyche, a unique case.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a unique case" to introduce detailed explanations of the context or features of a situation which distinguish it from others.

Common error

Avoid using "a unique case" when "unusual" or "rare" would suffice. Overusing "unique" dilutes its impact. Instead, consider if the situation truly lacks any precedent or comparison before labeling it as such.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a unique case" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig indicates this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Social Media

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a unique case" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a situation or instance that is distinct and requires special consideration. Ludwig's AI confirms its validity and widespread use. While versatile, it's crucial to reserve its use for scenarios that genuinely lack precedent to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives like ""an exceptional circumstance"" or ""a distinct situation"" can provide nuanced alternatives. The phrase is prevalent in news, scientific, and business contexts, indicating its broad applicability across various registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exceptional circumstance

Emphasizes the rarity and deviation from the norm.

a one-of-a-kind situation

Highlights the singularity and distinctiveness.

a special instance

Focuses on the particular and noteworthy aspect.

an unprecedented event

Stresses the novelty and lack of prior occurrence.

a distinct situation

Underscores the clear differentiation from other scenarios.

an atypical example

Highlights the non-conformity to typical patterns.

a singular occurrence

Emphasizes that the event happened only once.

an isolated incident

Highlights the separation from any connected events.

a rare phenomenon

Stresses the infrequency and unusual nature.

an uncommon scenario

Focuses on the infrequency of the situation.

FAQs

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

Use "a unique case" to highlight something that differs significantly from the norm and warrants special consideration. For example, "This legal challenge is "a unique case" because it involves previously untested interpretations of the law."

What are some alternatives to saying "a unique case"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an exceptional circumstance", "a distinct situation", or "an unprecedented event".

Is it redundant to say "very unique case"?

Yes, "unique" means one-of-a-kind, so adding "very" is redundant. It is better to simply say ""a unique case"" or emphasize the specific aspects that make the case unique.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a unique case"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation that has no direct parallel or precedent and requires a tailored approach. Avoid using it if the situation is simply unusual but shares characteristics with other known situations.