case at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

"case at hand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the current situation or problem that you are considering. For example, "We need to focus on the case at hand and find a solution as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He will consider the case at hand.

The New York Times

The case at hand arose from a domestic dispute.

The New York Times

We oppose this order, which has implications far beyond the legal case at hand," he wrote.

The Guardian

In the case at hand, give Maxine a same-age ally to kvetch to.

The New York Times - Arts

The case at hand involved a number of groups, including Western Tradition Partners.

The New Yorker

"And then everything else I basically view as just a case at hand.

The New Yorker

She has a habit of confining her vote to the case at hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

Both sides can then focus on the case at hand, rather than the bill.

The Economist

Doubt means you're looking carefully at the case at hand, that you're weighing the evidence on all sides.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The case at hand reflects the deep animosity between Hello! and OK!, which often pay huge sums to subjects.

The New York Times

The case at hand — and it's a whopper — involves a short sale on a condominium in Deltona, Fla.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "case at hand", ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. It's best used when referring to a specific situation or problem that's already been introduced.

Common error

Avoid using "case at hand" in overly casual or informal conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound stilted or overly formal in everyday settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the current situation" or "what we're dealing with".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "case at hand" functions as a noun phrase that specifies the particular situation, problem, or matter currently under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "case at hand" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that refers to the specific issue or situation being discussed or analyzed. Ludwig AI supports its usage and notes its wide applicability across diverse contexts. While it is primarily found in News & Media and Scientific sources, its neutrality makes it suitable for many professional settings. When writing, remember that "case at hand" is most effective when the context is already clear, and simpler alternatives might be preferable in casual settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can use "case at hand" effectively and appropriately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present instance

Replaces "case" with "instance" and uses "present" instead of "at hand" to indicate the current situation.

current matter

Focuses on the "matter" or issue being dealt with, using "current" to specify its immediacy.

immediate situation

Highlights the urgency and directness of the "situation" being discussed.

topic in question

Shifts the focus to the "topic" being examined, emphasizing the element of inquiry or debate.

matter before us

Implies a formal or deliberative setting, referring to the "matter" being presented for consideration.

subject under discussion

Emphasizes the act of "discussion" and the specific "subject" being addressed.

issue at stake

Highlights the potential consequences or "stakes" involved in the current "issue".

specific context

Focuses on the "context" or surrounding circumstances of the current "case".

present concern

Emphasizes the "concern" or worry that is currently being addressed.

actual problem

Highlights that there is a problem or issue and it needs to be solved.

FAQs

What does "case at hand" mean?

The phrase "case at hand" refers to the specific situation or matter that is currently being discussed, considered, or dealt with.

How can I use "case at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "case at hand" to focus attention on the present issue, such as, "In the "case at hand", the evidence suggests a different outcome."

What are some alternatives to "case at hand"?

Some alternatives to "case at hand" include "present instance", "current matter", or "immediate situation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "case at hand" formal or informal?

"Case at hand" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional, academic, or news-related contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.