an individual case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an individual case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific instance or example that is distinct from others. Example: "In an individual case, the results may vary significantly from the overall trend observed in the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is only an individual case.

The Guardian

Every case is an individual case.

The Guardian - Sport

She said she couldn't talk about an individual case.

The New York Times

Federal immigration officials said they could not comment on an individual case.

The New York Times

"You have to see every issue in this as an individual case," Hiddink said.

The Guardian - Sport

But any debate on an individual case might prejudice a prosecution.

The Guardian

It can never be proved that an anticlotting drug caused a stroke in an individual case.

The New York Times - Health

A Home Office spokesman refused to comment on an individual case.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"But that doesn't mean there isn't a benefit in an individual case".

The New York Times

The Home Office said in a statement: "We would not comment on the details of an individual case.

The Guardian

It's hard to say on an individual case whether it gave some months of extra survival or not.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "an individual case" with more descriptive alternatives like "a specific instance" or "a particular example" for enhanced precision.

Common error

Avoid drawing broad conclusions or making sweeping statements based solely on "an individual case". Remember that one instance might not be representative of a larger trend or population. Always seek corroborating evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an individual case" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase identifies a specific situation or instance that is considered separately from others. Examples provided by Ludwig show the phrase being used to highlight specific instances in legal, medical, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an individual case" is a common and versatile noun phrase used to denote a specific instance or situation, as validated by Ludwig. It functions to highlight particular details, often in contrast to a broader trend. Given its presence across News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, the phrase holds a neutral register, making it suitable for various settings. When using "an individual case", ensure clarity regarding the context it's being distinguished from, and consider descriptive alternatives for added precision. Avoid overgeneralizing based solely on one instance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific instance

Emphasizes the particularity of the situation, replacing "individual" with "specific".

a particular example

Focuses on the example aspect, using "particular" to highlight its distinct nature.

a one-off situation

Highlights the uniqueness and non-repeatability of the case.

an isolated incident

Stresses the separation of the case from a broader pattern.

a discrete event

Emphasizes the distinct and separate nature of the event.

a unique circumstance

Focuses on the special and uncommon nature of the circumstances.

a singular occurrence

Highlights the rarity and uniqueness of the event.

a case-by-case basis

Focuses on individual assessment rather than creating rules.

an exceptional instance

Emphasizes the deviation from the norm, highlighting its rarity and importance.

a standalone situation

Underscores the self-contained and independent nature of the case.

FAQs

How can I use "an individual case" in a sentence?

You can use "an individual case" to refer to a specific instance that is being considered separately from others. For example: "While the overall trend is positive, "an individual case" might show a different outcome."

What are some alternatives to "an individual case"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a specific instance", "a particular example", or "an isolated incident".

When is it appropriate to focus on "an individual case"?

It is appropriate to focus on "an individual case" when you need to analyze the specific details and circumstances of a single event or situation, particularly when it deviates from the norm or requires special attention.

What's the difference between "an individual case" and "a general trend"?

"An individual case" refers to a single, specific instance, while "a general trend" describes a pattern or tendency observed across a larger group or population. "An individual case" may or may not align with the general trend.