an open-and-shut case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an open-and-shut case" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or case that is straightforward and has a clear outcome, often in legal contexts. Example: "The evidence presented in court made it clear that this was an open-and-shut case, leaving no room for doubt about the defendant's guilt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

It was an open-and-shut case.

The New York Times

"Everyone likes an open-and-shut case.

The Guardian - Books

This was not an open-and-shut case.

The New Yorker

But it isn't always an open-and-shut case.

The New York Times

He called the outcome an open-and-shut case.

The New York Times - Science

It looked like an open-and-shut case.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

This was an open and shut case.

The Guardian - Business

This is not an open and shut case.

The New York Times

"It's not an open and shut case," Harris says.

The Washington Post

There are many less notable listed buildings, so it should be an open and shut case.

The Guardian - Arts

When tests showed contact with polonium-210, it seemed an open and shut case.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an open-and-shut case" to describe situations where the evidence is overwhelmingly clear and the outcome is virtually certain. This phrase is particularly effective in legal, investigative, or analytical contexts where clarity and decisiveness are valued.

Common error

Avoid using "an open-and-shut case" when dealing with nuanced or intricate scenarios that require deeper investigation or critical thought. The phrase implies a simplicity that may not accurately reflect the true complexity of the situation, potentially misleading the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an open-and-shut case" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun (such as 'case', 'situation', 'matter', etc.) to describe it as easily resolvable or decided. This characterization is supported by Ludwig, which identifies the phrase's correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an open-and-shut case" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a situation or legal matter with a clear and easily determined outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's best used when the simplicity it implies accurately reflects the situation. Alternatives like ""a clear-cut case"" or ""a slam dunk"" can be considered for nuanced contexts. When it comes to the linguistic analysis, remember that the register is generally neutral or professional and that in legal settings or formal documents it has a complete acceptance as a common expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear-cut case

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the situation.

an easily decided matter

Focuses on the simplicity and ease of reaching a decision.

a straightforward situation

Highlights the lack of complications or difficulties.

a foregone conclusion

Suggests the outcome is inevitable and predictable.

a no-brainer

Implies the decision is extremely obvious and requires little thought.

a cut-and-dried issue

Indicates the matter is settled and requires no further debate.

an obvious conclusion

Highlights that the conclusion is easily apparent.

a slam dunk

Implies an easy and assured success or victory.

a simple matter

Emphasizes the ease and lack of complexity in the issue.

an airtight case

Highlights the strength and impregnability of the evidence or argument.

FAQs

How can I use "an open-and-shut case" in a sentence?

You can use "an open-and-shut case" to describe a situation or legal case where the evidence is so clear that the outcome is obvious. For example, "The evidence presented in court made it clear that this was "a clear-cut case", leaving no room for doubt about the defendant's guilt."

What are some alternatives to "an open-and-shut case"?

Alternatives include "a clear-cut case", "a slam dunk", or "a foregone conclusion", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "an open-and-shut case" in formal writing?

Yes, "an open-and-shut case" can be used in formal writing, especially in legal or analytical contexts, to describe situations where the evidence is overwhelmingly clear. However, consider the audience and purpose of your writing to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

What does it mean for something to be "an open-and-shut case"?

When something is described as "an open-and-shut case", it means that the matter is easily resolved due to the clarity and strength of the evidence, leaving little or no room for doubt or debate. It suggests that the outcome is predictable and straightforward.