in the former case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the former case" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a previous topic or situation that has already been discussed. For example: "The outcome of the latter situation was much more favorable, whereas in the former case the results were unfavorable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the former case they found none.

The Economist

Furthermore, in the former case the designs are triplewhist tournaments.

Discrete Mathematics

Males in the former case performed virtually identically to those tested in experiment 1.

Animal Behaviour

Each compensation loop is similar to that in the former case.

Precision Engineering

In the former case, however, it does pose significant interpretation challenges.

Procedia in Vaccinology

In the former case the detection of corrosion has to be performed in reinforced concrete.

Intelligent Coatings for Corrosion Control

In the former case, the spatial resolution was about 20 μm.

Ultrasonics

In the former case, the background of lean manufacturing and its major implications are reviewed.

Encyclopedia of Dairy Sciences

In the former case, frequency swept sinusoidal signals are applied, in the latter modulated chirps.

NDT & E International

We propose a method for sample coordination in the former case.

Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference

In the former case, delegation sets may be disconnected and may feature gaps.

Journal of Economic Theory

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the former case" to clearly distinguish between two previously mentioned scenarios, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "in the former case" if only one case has been presented, or if you subsequently refer to more than two cases. This creates confusion and weakens the clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the former case" functions as an adverbial phrase, specifically a transitional phrase, to connect ideas and provide clarity by referring back to the first of two previously mentioned situations. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

63%

Academia

23%

News & Media

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the former case" is a grammatically sound and common transitional phrase used to refer back to the first of two previously mentioned items or situations. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage. It's most frequently found in scientific and academic writing, serving to clarify distinctions and avoid ambiguity. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring you've clearly presented two options before referencing the "former". Alternatives such as "previously" or "in the preceding instance" can be used for stylistic variation, but ensure they maintain the intended clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the preceding instance

Replaces "case" with "instance" for a slightly more formal tone.

in the aforementioned situation

More formal and emphasizes a previously stated fact.

in the first instance

More emphasis on enumeration.

in the prior situation

Substitutes "case" with "situation" for a contextual shift.

in the earlier example

More specific, referring to a specific example.

in the initial scenario

Uses "scenario" instead of "case" for a different nuance.

previously

A more concise alternative, omitting "in the" and "case".

earlier

A shorter, less formal substitute.

firstly

Highlights the ordering and omits the reference to the "case".

beforehand

A concise adverbial form.

FAQs

What does "in the former case" mean?

The phrase "in the former case" refers back to the first of two items, situations, or options that have been previously mentioned.

How can I use "in the former case" in a sentence?

Use "in the former case" to clarify which of two previously discussed items you're currently addressing. For example: "We considered option A and option B. "In the former case", we proceed with caution."

What's the difference between "in the former case" and "in the latter case"?

"In the former case" refers to the first of two items, while "in the latter case" refers to the second.

Are there alternatives to using "in the former case"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "previously", "in the preceding instance", or "earlier" depending on the context.