in some cases

USAGE SUMMARY

"in some cases" is a correct phrase that is often used in written English.
It can be used whenever there are multiple possibilities or scenarios, but the speaker or writer is particularly referring to only a few examples or situations. For example, you could say "In some cases, students may need additional support to complete their studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Probably, in some cases.

The New York Times

In some cases, grandparents.

The New York Times

In some cases, that's easy.

The New Yorker

In some cases they did.

The Economist

Almost nonexistent in some cases.

The New Yorker

In some cases, they are.

The New Yorker

In some cases, laughably so.

Independent

In some cases it has.

The Economist

Painfully so, in some cases.

The New York Times - Food

"The rage, in some cases.

The New York Times

"In some cases, in some cases.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in some cases", be specific about the conditions or situations you are referring to in order to avoid ambiguity. Providing examples can further clarify your meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "in some cases" as a vague disclaimer without providing any context or specific examples. This can weaken your argument and leave the reader wondering about the exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in some cases" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is true or applicable only under certain conditions. As Ludwig AI states, it introduces a limitation or exception to a general statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in some cases" is a grammatically correct and widely used adverbial phrase that serves to qualify statements and introduce conditionality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for indicating that a statement is not universally true and needs to be understood within specific contexts. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as in wikis and scientific publications, demonstrating its versatility across various registers. When using "in some cases", remember to provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity and ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in certain situations

This alternative emphasizes the specific circumstances under which something is true or applicable.

under certain circumstances

This highlights the conditions that need to be met for something to occur or be valid.

in some instances

This alternative focuses on the particular occurrences where something happens.

in select cases

This implies that the cases are carefully chosen or specific.

depending on the situation

This phrase explicitly links the outcome or applicability to the specific context.

subject to conditions

This highlights that the applicability is dependent on meeting certain prerequisites.

occasionally

This suggests that something happens from time to time, but not always.

sometimes

This is a general term for something that happens periodically but not consistently.

on occasion

Similar to 'occasionally', this phrase emphasizes that something happens sporadically.

for some

This is a shorter and more direct way of saying that something is true for a subset of people or situations.

FAQs

How do I use "in some cases" in a sentence?

Use "in some cases" to indicate that a statement is true or applicable for a limited number of situations or examples, but not universally. For example, "In some cases, students may need additional support."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "in some cases"?

Alternatives to "in some cases" include phrases like "in certain situations", "under certain circumstances", or "in some instances".

Is it better to be specific instead of using "in some cases"?

While "in some cases" is acceptable, being specific about the conditions or situations improves clarity. Instead of saying "in some cases, medication is required", you could say "Medication is required when symptoms are severe".

When is it inappropriate to use "in some cases"?

Avoid using "in some cases" when you are making a general statement that is almost always true. It is better suited for situations where the exceptions are noteworthy or significant.