an overwhelming case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overwhelming case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation or argument that is very strong or compelling, often in a legal or persuasive context. Example: "The evidence presented in court created an overwhelming case against the defendant, leaving little doubt in the minds of the jurors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They made an overwhelming case.

The New York Times

You've given up unless there's an overwhelming case to offset inflation risk".

The New York Times

Unaccustomed to such an overwhelming case of nerves, I was unable to continue".

The Guardian - Music

Even Mr. Jones said after the verdict that "this was not an overwhelming case".

The New York Times

The United States Anti-Doping Agency said it had built "an overwhelming case" against Armstrong, despite no positive test.

The New York Times - Sports

And yet Mr. Tata had, in 1946, told the Associated Press of India: "In the present instance…there is an overwhelming case against the nationalisation of Indian airlines".

The New York Times

Alderson said Wednesday evening that there are times when a candidate can make an overwhelming case during an interview and win a job.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

He said: "I personally believe there is a pretty overwhelming case for England taking a stand and saying that we should not participate in the next World Cup given the current appalling state of Fifa".

Independent

"This is a seemingly overwhelming case" of innocence, Mr. Allen said, adding that he also believed that the victim's glasses were planted in the apartment, based on his review of crime scene photographs.

The New York Times

Investigators said the ballistics tests further strengthened a seemingly overwhelming case against the suspects, John B. Taylor, 36, and Craig Godineaux, 30, who were arrested on Friday less than 48 hours after the shootings at the Wendy's on Main Street in Flushing.

The New York Times

He said: "There is an unprecedented cross-party mandate for this, an undeniable environmental and moral case and an overwhelming economic case for taking this issue forward.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "an overwhelming case" when aiming to persuade or convince your audience of the validity of your perspective. This phrase is especially effective in legal, academic, or business contexts where rigorous argumentation is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "an overwhelming case" when the supporting evidence is weak or circumstantial. Overstating the strength of your argument can undermine your credibility and weaken your overall position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an overwhelming case" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "overwhelming" modifies the noun "case." It describes the quality or nature of the case being presented. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts, reinforcing its grammatical validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an overwhelming case" is a commonly used phrase that signifies a particularly strong and persuasive argument or set of evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct. It is frequently employed in news and media and in formal contexts to emphasize the strength and validity of a claim. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, one should avoid overstating evidence. Related phrases include "a conclusive argument" and "a compelling rationale". By understanding its usage, contexts, and potential pitfalls, you can effectively incorporate "an overwhelming case" into your writing to convey conviction and persuade your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conclusive argument

Emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of the argument.

a compelling rationale

Highlights the reasoning behind a decision or action, making it irresistible.

an unanswerable argument

Focuses on the impossibility of refuting the presented argument.

a powerful justification

Highlights the strength and validity of the reasons provided.

an incontrovertible proof

Stresses the undeniable and irrefutable nature of the evidence.

a decisive piece of evidence

Emphasizes that the evidence in question can bring a decision.

a firm basis

Suggests a secure and reliable foundation for a claim or action.

a robust defense

Emphasizes the strength and resilience of the protective measures in place.

a strong case

A more general alternative that still conveys the idea of a persuasive argument.

a convincing argument

Similar to a strong case, but emphasizes the persuasive power of the argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "an overwhelming case" to describe a situation where the evidence or arguments in favor of something are very strong and difficult to refute. For example, "The prosecution presented "an overwhelming case" against the defendant."

What can I say instead of "an overwhelming case"?

You can use alternatives like "a compelling rationale", "a conclusive argument", or "a powerful justification" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an overwhelming case" in informal writing?

While "an overwhelming case" is generally suitable for formal and professional contexts, it can be used in informal writing as well, especially when you want to emphasize the strength of an argument or evidence. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it fits appropriately.

What's the difference between "a strong case" and "an overwhelming case"?

While both phrases suggest a persuasive argument, "a strong case" implies a generally convincing argument, whereas ""an overwhelming case"" indicates that the evidence is exceptionally compelling and leaves little room for doubt.