in which case

USAGE SUMMARY

'in which case' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use 'in which case' to introduce a situation that follows logically from the previous statement or to explain an alternative option. For example: "The meeting will be tomorrow, in which case we need to make sure that everyone is aware of the time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In which case Corbyn is a "moderniser".

Independent

In which case, I'd suggest Hong Kong.

Independent

In which case, the problem is Schumacher.

Independent

In which case, who are the monsters?

The New Yorker

In which case, what do you fear?

Independent

In which case: well-needled, that woman.

The Guardian - Opinion

In which case, God help us all.

Independent

In which case I'm done.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In which case – why bother?

The Guardian - Books

In which case yeah, great.

The Guardian - Music

In which case he's "retro".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in which case" to clearly signal a logical consequence or an alternative scenario that directly follows from the preceding statement. It helps maintain a smooth and coherent flow of thought in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in which case" simply as a transition between sentences if there isn't a direct conditional relationship. Ensure that the second part of the sentence truly depends on the scenario described in the first part.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in which case" functions as an adverbial connector, specifically a conditional conjunction. It introduces a clause that expresses a logical consequence or alternative scenario depending on the condition stated in the preceding clause. As confirmed by Ludwig, it correctly introduces a situation that follows logically.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in which case" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as a conditional conjunction. It's employed to connect ideas by introducing a scenario that depends on a previous statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is perfectly acceptable in written English. Examples show that it commonly appears in news, academic, and science-related content. While there is nothing wrong in starting a sentence with "in which case" is important to be careful to use that correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if that happens

This alternative simplifies the conditional statement, focusing on the potential occurrence of a specific event.

in that situation

This phrase emphasizes the specific circumstances under which the subsequent action or outcome would occur.

under those circumstances

Similar to 'in that situation', this option highlights the conditional nature of the statement based on a given set of conditions.

in such an event

This alternative is slightly more formal, suggesting a specific occurrence that triggers a subsequent action.

if so

This is a more concise and informal way of expressing the conditional, suitable for less formal contexts.

should that be the case

This phrase adds a layer of formality and possibility, implying a potential scenario.

if this is true

This option directly questions the veracity of a preceding statement, establishing a conditional relationship.

then

This single word provides a direct and simple connection between a condition and its consequence.

given that

This phrase introduces a premise or condition upon which the following statement depends.

consequently

This emphasizes the result or logical outcome of a previous statement or condition.

FAQs

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

Use "in which case" to introduce a situation that is a direct consequence or alternative to a preceding statement. For example, "The delivery might be delayed, "in which case" we will notify you immediately."

What are some alternatives to "in which case"?

You can use alternatives like "if that happens", "in that situation", or "if so", depending on the context.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "in which case"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "in which case" can sometimes sound less formal. Ensure it logically connects to the previous statement for clarity.

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

"In which case" introduces a conditional situation or consequence, while "in any case" ("in any case") implies regardless of what has been said or what might happen.