in that case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'in that case' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase used to indicate that a different course of action will occur depending on the situation. For example: "If you don't want to go out for dinner, in that case, I'll just make something at home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In that case, bueno.

The New York Times - Sports

In that case, prime away.

The New York Times

The explanation in that case?

The Economist

The eyewitness in that case?

The New Yorker

The risks in that case were immense.

The New York Times

Washington could still retaliate in that case.

The New York Times

In that case, all constitutions become irrelevant.

The Economist

"In that case, fuck yeah," Haber said.

The New Yorker

"In that case, you're really pretty".

The New Yorker

In that case, we need a Leica.

The New Yorker

It certainly did in that case.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in that case" to clearly indicate a change in action or decision based on a preceding condition or statement. This helps create a logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in that case" as a general introductory phrase without a clear preceding condition. It should always refer back to a specific situation or statement. For example, don't start a paragraph with "In that case, let's discuss..." if there's no prior condition being referenced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in that case" functions as a conditional connector. It introduces a clause that expresses a consequence, a result, or an alternative action that will occur given the condition stated in the preceding clause. Ludwig AI confirms its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

16%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in that case" serves as a conditional connector, indicating a consequence or alternative action resulting from a specific condition. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts such as News & Media, Academia and Wiki. While suitable for most situations, consider alternatives like "that being the case" in highly formal settings. Remember to use "in that case" to clearly signal a shift in plans or decisions, and avoid misusing it as a general introduction. With these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively incorporate "in that case" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if that's so

A more concise way of acknowledging a stated condition before indicating a resulting action.

if that's the situation

Emphasizes the acknowledgment of a specific situation before presenting the subsequent action.

that being the case

More formal and explicitly states that what was previously mentioned is the reason for the subsequent action.

under those circumstances

Highlights the specific circumstances as the basis for the following action.

in that event

Refers to a potential event or outcome that triggers a specific response.

given that

Presents the preceding information as a known fact or condition.

considering that

Similar to "given that", but can imply a more deliberative consideration of the preceding information.

if that is indeed true

Expresses slight doubt or requires confirmation of the stated condition.

assuming that's true

Highlights the assumption of the condition's validity.

should that be the situation

More formal and hypothetical, suggesting a less certain condition.

FAQs

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

"In that case" is used to introduce a consequence or alternative action based on a previously stated condition. For example, "If you can't attend the meeting, in that case, I'll present your report."

What phrases are similar to "in that case"?

Similar phrases include "if that's so", "that being the case", or "under those circumstances", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "in that case" in formal writing?

Yes, "in that case" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, for a more elevated tone, consider using alternatives such as "that being the case" or "under those circumstances".

What's the difference between "in that case" and "in any case"?

"In that case" implies a conditional response to a specific situation, while "in any case" introduces a statement that is true regardless of the preceding conditions. They serve different functions in a sentence.