case has been opened

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "case has been opened" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as law enforcement, customer service, or any situation where an investigation or inquiry has commenced. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, the detective confirmed that a case has been opened regarding the missing person."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

A criminal case has been opened due to this invasion".

The Guardian

We are expecting the arrest of the popular opposition activist Alexei Navalny, against whom a criminal case has been opened.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the meantime, a second criminal case has been opened involving the L.& H co-founder, Pol Hauspie.

The New York Times

A case has been opened to consider possible criminal negligence, although it was not clear whether the investigation was aimed at the company or individual employees.

The New York Times

"We have been contacted by industry participants and we are monitoring the situation, but no antitrust case has been opened," said Antoine Colombani, a spokesman for Joaquín Almunia, competition commissioner of the European Union.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, Deputy Prosecutor General Renat Kuzmin told reporters in Kiev that "a criminal case has been opened against Leonid Kuchma".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Interfax reported that investigators were using diving equipment on Sunday as they examined the scene and that a criminal case had been opened for violation of safety rules.

The New York Times

Nonetheless, I received an email from eBay informing me that "a case" had been opened against me as the buyer had still not received their parcel.

The Guardian - Money

The front of the case had been opened so that all the children could behold the spectacular somnolent indifference of the python's face.

The New Yorker

But the board also said the F.A.A. manager should have realized that a search had not gotten under way when the Air Force controller did not reply that a case had been opened.

The New York Times

Earlier, Azimbek Beknazarov, deputy head of the interim government, said a criminal case had been opened against Mr. Bakiyev, and demanded that he surrender and return to the capital to face charges.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "case has been opened", clearly state what the "case" refers to, providing context for the reader to understand the subject of the investigation or inquiry.

Common error

Avoid using "case has been opened" without specifying the nature of the case. For example, instead of saying "A case has been opened", specify "A criminal case has been opened" or "A child welfare case has been opened" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "case has been opened" functions as a declarative statement, indicating the commencement of a formal inquiry, investigation, or legal process. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "case has been opened" is a grammatically correct and neutrally registered phrase that signals the commencement of an investigation, legal process, or formal inquiry. Ludwig's analysis, based on real-world examples, shows the phrase is most frequently used in news and media contexts. While its frequency is considered uncommon, providing clear context and avoiding vague references are key to its effective use. Alternatives like "investigation has commenced" or "inquiry has been launched" can be used depending on the desired level of formality or specificity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an investigation has commenced

Focuses on the start of an investigative process, using more formal language.

proceedings have been initiated

Emphasizes the beginning of a formal legal or official action.

an inquiry has been launched

Highlights the start of a fact-finding mission or examination.

a probe has been started

Implies a thorough and detailed examination is underway.

a file has been created

Suggests a record or dossier has been established for documentation.

a claim has been filed

Specifically refers to the formal submission of a claim.

an action has been undertaken

Indicates that some specific steps or measures have been taken.

a study has begun

Emphasizes the commencement of a research or analytical project.

a review has been initiated

Implies a systematic assessment or evaluation has started.

a process has commenced

Focuses on the start of a series of actions or steps.

FAQs

How can I use "case has been opened" in a sentence?

You can use "case has been opened" to indicate the start of an investigation or legal process. For example, "After reviewing the evidence, a "criminal case" has been opened."

What's the difference between "case has been opened" and "case has been filed"?

"Case has been opened" generally means an investigation or inquiry has started. "Case has been filed" specifically refers to the formal submission of a legal claim or lawsuit.

Which is correct, "case has been opened" or "case was opened"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "case has been opened" implies a present or ongoing status, while "case was opened" refers to a past event. The choice depends on the context.

What can I say instead of "case has been opened"?

You can use alternatives like "investigation has commenced", "inquiry has been launched", or "proceedings have been initiated" depending on the specific context and level of formality.