an isolated case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an isolated case" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation or event that is unique or uncommon, and does not represent a larger pattern or trend. Example: The company assured customers that the recent product recall was an isolated case, and that their other products were safe for use.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

were an isolated case.

The New York Times

This isn't an isolated case.

The New York Times

Fauji, however, is not an isolated case.

The New Yorker

And Dorridge is not an isolated case.

Independent

Asthma is not an isolated case.

The New Yorker

So Greece is not an isolated case".

The New York Times

This is not an isolated case.

The New York Times

It was not an isolated case.

The New Yorker

His was far from an isolated case.

Independent

Hers was hardly an isolated case.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This an a isolated case".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an isolated case", ensure the context clearly supports the claim that the situation is not representative of a broader trend. Provide evidence or reasoning to reinforce this point.

Common error

Avoid generalizing or drawing broad conclusions from "an isolated case". It's misleading to suggest a cause-and-effect relationship or predict future outcomes based solely on one instance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an isolated case" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It qualifies a specific event or situation as being unique and not representative of a larger trend. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an isolated case" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a unique event or situation, not indicative of a broader pattern. According to Ludwig, it's found most often in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts. When using this phrase, be sure that the context supports the claim of uniqueness and avoid drawing broad conclusions from it. Consider alternatives like "a rare occurrence" or "an exceptional instance" for variety. Remember that while Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, proper usage depends on accurate context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rare occurrence

This alternative focuses on the infrequency of the event.

a one-time event

Underscores that the event is not expected to be repeated.

a one-off situation

Emphasizes the singularity and non-repeatable nature.

an exceptional instance

Highlights the unusual nature of the situation.

a unique situation

Focuses on the distinctiveness of the circumstances.

an infrequent event

Focuses on how uncommonly the event takes place.

an atypical example

Indicates a departure from the norm or standard.

a singular incident

Stresses the unique and individual nature.

an anomaly

This is a more formal term that indicates something that deviates from the general rule.

a freak event

This phrase emphasizes the unexpected and unusual nature of the case.

FAQs

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

You can use "an isolated case" to describe a situation or event that is unique and not typical. For example: "The company stated that the data breach was "an isolated case" and took immediate steps to secure their systems".

What is a synonym for "an isolated case"?

Synonyms for "an isolated case" include "a rare occurrence", "an exceptional instance", or "a one-off situation". These phrases all suggest that something is not part of a larger pattern.

Is it appropriate to use "an isolated case" in formal writing?

Yes, "an isolated case" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when you want to emphasize that a specific event or situation is not representative of a broader trend or pattern. Its use is common in news, academic, and business contexts.

What's the difference between "an isolated case" and "a common occurrence"?

"An isolated case" refers to something that happens rarely and is not indicative of a larger trend. In contrast, "a common occurrence" suggests that something happens frequently and is typical.