in either case

USAGE SUMMARY

"in either case" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to introduce an explanation for two possible outcomes of an event. For example, "In either case, you need to be prepared for all eventualities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I didn't succeed in either case.

The New York Times - Travel

(In either case, sofa time).

The New York Times

Not true in either case.

The New Yorker

In either case he loses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In either case, it's attention.

The New Yorker

In either case, their days seemed endless.

The New Yorker

In either case levelness is important.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The state is essential in either case.

The Economist

In either case, it was a lot.

The New Yorker

In either case, Holder should resign.

The New Yorker

Police have no suspects in either case.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the two possibilities you're referring to are clearly defined before using "in either case" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "in either case" when more than two possibilities exist; it implies there are only two options being considered. If there are more than two consider using "in any case".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in either case" serves as a connector, linking two potential scenarios to a single, unified outcome or conclusion. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase introduces a statement applicable to both situations under consideration. It signals that the subsequent information remains valid regardless of which of the two cases is true.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

21%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in either case" is a versatile phrase used to show that a statement is true regardless of which of two possibilities occurs. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. To ensure correct usage, clearly define the two possibilities beforehand, and avoid using it when more than two possibilities exist. Common alternatives include "either way" and "in any case", depending on the formality and number of possibilities, respectively. Remember, clarity is key when using "in either case" to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in either situation

Replaces "case" with "situation", focusing on the circumstances.

under either circumstance

Substitutes "in" with "under" and "case" with "circumstance", slightly more formal.

in both scenarios

Uses "scenarios" instead of "cases", emphasizing hypothetical situations.

either way

A shorter, more informal way of saying "in either case".

regardless of the situation

Shifts focus to the lack of dependence on specific circumstances.

whatever the situation

Highlights that the outcome remains the same despite different situations.

in any of these events

Specifies 'events' as the context, implying a sequence of occurrences.

irrespective of the matter

Replaces "case" with "matter", adding a more general tone.

no matter what happens

Emphasizes the invariability of the subsequent action despite potential events.

alternatively

Focuses on the availability of another option or possibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "in either case" to indicate that a statement is true regardless of which of two possibilities is the reality. For example, "The meeting could be held on Monday or Tuesday. "In either case", I will be there."

What's a more informal alternative to "in either case"?

A more informal alternative to "in either case" is "either way". It conveys the same meaning but is suitable for less formal contexts.

Is there a difference between "in either case" and "in any case"?

Yes, "in either case" implies there are two possibilities, while "in any case" suggests there could be multiple or unspecified possibilities. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the number of possibilities being considered.

Can I use "in either case" at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to start a sentence with "in either case" to emphasize that the statement holds true for both preceding possibilities.