as a case in point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a case in point" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce an example that illustrates a particular argument or point being made. Example: "Many people struggle with time management; as a case in point, consider the challenges faced by students balancing work and study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Consider HMV as a case in point.

The Guardian

Cellphones serve as a case in point.

The New York Times

Consider adaptive cruise control as a case in point.

The Telegraph

He mentioned Russia as a case in point.

The New York Times

"I can mention Afghanistan as a case in point".

The New York Times

As a case in point, he takes Tolstoy's famous character Ivan Ilych.

Yale University

As a case in point, Python programs are written and stored as text.

University of California, Berkeley

As a case in point, I give you physicist Joshua Silver.

MIT Technology Review

He offered this trip, with its stopover in Minneapolis, as a case in point.

The New York Times - Sports

One participant cited the "disaster that was individual learning accounts" as a case in point.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

As a case-in-point, the image below depicts Muhammad being instructed by the Archangel Gabriel.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a case in point" to smoothly transition from a general statement to a specific example that supports it. It adds a touch of formality and sophistication to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as a case in point" in highly informal or conversational writing where simpler alternatives like "for example" or "for instance" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a case in point" serves as a transitional phrase. It functions to introduce a specific example that supports or illustrates a preceding general statement. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a case in point" is a grammatically sound and versatile transitional phrase used to introduce illustrative examples. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, lending a touch of formality to writing. While it's essential to use it judiciously in informal settings, its ability to clearly connect a general statement with a specific example makes it a valuable tool for effective communication. Remember to explore alternatives like "for example" or "to illustrate" to tailor your writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for example

A more direct and common substitute, lacking the slightly formal tone of the original.

to illustrate

Focuses on clarifying a point through demonstration, similar in function but less conversational.

as an illustration

Emphasizes the visual or explanatory aspect of the example, slightly more formal.

consider this

Invites the reader to contemplate a specific instance, offering a more immediate feel.

take for instance

Offers a specific example, but with a lighter, more conversational tone.

by way of example

A more formal and slightly verbose alternative, suitable for academic or legal writing.

to cite an instance

Highlights the act of referencing a specific occurrence, more formal and analytical.

specifically

Directly introduces a particular detail or example, less about storytelling.

in particular

Highlights a detail within a broader context, somewhat more focused.

let's say

Introduces a hypothetical example, offering a less factual and more speculative tone.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "as a case in point" in a sentence?

Use "as a case in point" to introduce a specific example that directly supports a preceding statement. It clarifies your point and provides concrete evidence.

What are some alternatives to "as a case in point"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "to illustrate", or "for instance" depending on the context.

Is "as a case in point" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "as a case in point" can sound somewhat formal. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "for example" are often preferred.

What's the difference between "as a case in point" and "for example"?

"As a case in point" carries a slightly more formal tone and implies a more direct and illustrative connection to the preceding statement than the more general "for example".