in unusual cases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in unusual cases" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to specific situations that are not typical or common. Example: "In unusual cases, we may need to adjust our standard procedures to accommodate unique circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Except in unusual cases, bills must first pass through a legislative committee before they can be posted for a vote in either house.

The New York Times

Mary Louise Cohen, a lawyer representing the whistle-blowers, said patients typically walk away after the procedure and need hospitalization only in unusual cases.

The New York Times

They argue that unlimited debate was never envisioned by the Constitution, and that supermajorities were required only in unusual cases, like overriding a veto or treaty ratification.

The New York Times

Today's order removed the exception, although in unusual cases, the White House said, some imports of gold coins may be allowed after Jan . 1

The New York Times

"In some cases, the time period can be as little as five days," he said, adding that only in unusual cases would a board have more than 30 days to exercise its right of first refusal.

The New York Times

Persky sentenced Turner to probation rather than a state prison sentence, despite the judge's own admission that "this is a case where probation is prohibited except in unusual cases where the interest of justice would best be served".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

In these unusual cases, we refer in the text to the number of events, without calculating their statistical significance.

eLife

In some unusual cases, chronic inflammation, as can happen with hepatitis B and C viruses, for example, is thought to lead to cancer.

The New York Times - Health

Both percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) and preimplantation testing are rare, relatively high-risk, and performed only in very unusual cases.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The double flanged covered self-expandable metal stent proved its utility in such unusual cases with high risk for bleeding due to colateral circulation.

BMC Gastroenterology

In December 2009, two unusual cases of anthrax were diagnosed in heroin users in Scotland.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in unusual cases", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes an "unusual" case, providing specific examples or criteria.

Common error

Avoid using "in unusual cases" as a vague disclaimer. Instead, specify the conditions that make a case unusual to maintain clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in unusual cases" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase. It modifies a verb, clause, or sentence, indicating the circumstances under which something might occur. Ludwig provides examples across diverse contexts that confirm its role in introducing exceptions to general rules.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in unusual cases" is a prepositional phrase used to introduce exceptions to general statements. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and applicable across various registers, from neutral to formal. While not exceedingly frequent, it's recognized and employed in quality sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and scientific publications. When using the phrase, specify and explain what makes the case "unusual" to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "in exceptional instances" or "in rare circumstances" depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in exceptional instances

Focuses on the rarity and deviation from the norm.

in rare circumstances

Highlights the infrequency of the situation.

in atypical situations

Emphasizes the non-standard nature of the cases.

in infrequent events

Underscores the low occurrence rate.

in extraordinary circumstances

Implies a level of significance beyond mere rarity.

under peculiar conditions

Highlights the odd or strange nature of the conditions.

under singular conditions

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the conditions.

in anomalous situations

Focuses on the deviation from the expected norm.

on the odd occasion

Uses a more informal tone and highlights unpredictability.

when circumstances are exceptional

Shifts the focus to the qualities of the circumstances themselves.

FAQs

How can I use "in unusual cases" in a sentence?

You can use "in unusual cases" to introduce exceptions to a general rule or procedure. For example, "Normally, we adhere strictly to protocol; however, "in unusual cases", we may need to deviate."

What's the difference between "in unusual cases" and "in exceptional circumstances"?

While similar, "in exceptional circumstances" often implies a more significant deviation from the norm, potentially involving more critical or impactful factors than "in unusual cases".

What can I say instead of "in unusual cases"?

You can use alternatives like "in rare circumstances", "in exceptional instances", or "in atypical situations" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "in unusual cases"?

It is appropriate when you want to acknowledge that there are exceptions to a general rule or standard practice, but these exceptions are not common or frequent.