handle a case

USAGE SUMMARY

"handle a case" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something managing or dealing with a particular situation or instance, especially in a professional or legal context. Example: The attorney was given the responsibility to handle a complex case involving multiple defendants.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Why did Mr. Morgenthau handle a case involving Yankee Stadium, which is in the Bronx?

The New York Times

The same officials handle a case from start to finish, often forming strong opinions during the investigative phase.

The Economist

Under standard practice in New York courts, several different judges would typically handle a case before it goes to trial.

The New York Times

But the larger concern, Chief Curran said, is how the police will handle a case, and already there are uncertainties.

The New York Times

If any judicial system in the world can handle a case like this fairly, efficiently and openly, it is ours.

The New York Times

It could be a disciplinary offense or create a ground to appeal if a judge were to handle a case involving a contributor.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Hain's remarks about Lord Justice Girvan's handling of a case caused controversy in Belfast when the book was published.

The Guardian

He was accused of placing a rattlesnake in the mailbox of a lawyer handling a case against Synanon.

The New York Times

The last time Sudan's courts handled a case that attracted such international attention, they found a compromise solution.

The New York Times

Mr. Devore, of the law firm of Forbes, Hathaway, Bryan & Devore, was handling a case for the Wolverine Comm.

The New Yorker

Until this month, he had never handled a case involving more than two deaths: two babies who died in a house fire; several car accidents with double deaths.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required; while generally acceptable, more formal contexts might benefit from synonyms like "manage" or "administer".

Common error

Avoid using "handle a case" without specifying the context. For example, instead of saying "The manager can handle a case", specify "The manager can handle a customer service case" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "handle a case" functions as a verb phrase, where "handle" is the verb indicating the action of managing or dealing with something, and "a case" is the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used. The examples show its use in various professional settings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "handle a case" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression for describing the management or dealing with a specific situation, often in professional contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various situations. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the specific context and choose synonyms like "manage a case" for more formal settings. Remember to specify the type of case being discussed to avoid ambiguity. Frequent sources like The New York Times and Huffington Post demonstrate its widespread usage, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manage a case

Focuses more on the administrative aspect of dealing with a case.

process a case

Emphasizes the systematic steps involved in dealing with a case.

deal with a case

A more general term, indicating any form of engagement with a case.

oversee a case

Implies a supervisory role in the handling of a case.

take care of a case

Suggests a responsibility for the well-being or proper resolution of a case.

administer a case

Highlights the organizational and procedural aspects of managing a case.

resolve a case

Focuses on bringing a case to a conclusion.

adjudicate a case

Specifically refers to a formal judgment or decision-making process.

investigate a case

Emphasizes the fact-finding and inquiry aspects of dealing with a case.

litigate a case

Refers specifically to handling a case through legal proceedings.

FAQs

How can I use "handle a case" in a sentence?

You can use "handle a case" to describe the process of managing or dealing with a particular situation or legal matter, such as "The lawyer was assigned to handle a difficult case".

What are some alternatives to "handle a case"?

You can use alternatives like "manage a case", "process a case", or "deal with a case" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "handle a case" or "manage a case"?

Both "handle a case" and "manage a case" are appropriate. "Manage a case" might be slightly more formal and focuses on the administrative aspects, while "handle a case" is a more general term.

What does it mean to "handle a case"?

To "handle a case" means to take responsibility for and manage all aspects of a particular situation, problem, or legal matter from start to finish, ensuring its proper resolution.