is it really the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is it really the case" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when questioning the truth or validity of a statement or situation. Example: "Is it really the case that we need to submit the report by tomorrow?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But is it really the case that such things readily lead to enslavement?

The New York Times - Arts

But is it really the case that the disadvantage stems from not asking?

The New Yorker

But is it really the case that everything has changed", as Tuesday's Guardian editorial also argued?

The Guardian - Opinion

But is it really the case that these radiant cities don't work?

The Guardian

Yet is it really the case that religious belief is not propositional, that no one starts or stops believing in God over the terrible hazard of a proposition?

The New Yorker

So, is it really the case that ideologically loaded one-liners can work without the vulgar streak of a Hicks or a Jerry Sadowitz?

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Was it really the case that when Buffalo Bill came to town he stopped his buggy mid-parade and asked the young Walt to join him?

The New Yorker

Furthermore, it is not clear that it is really the case that pictures cannot be inexplicit in the relevant way (consider, for example, a rough, impressionistic sketch of a tiger, or a blurred photograph).

SEP

If it is really the case that the parasites do not form a clan, it therefore seems likely that the gain-loss model used is still an inadequate description of the real process of genome evolution.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Author's Response Yes, it is really the case.

Biology Direct

At the same time it is not clear, if this is really the case and which alternative approach would be more suitableg.

Health Economics Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is it really the case", follow it with specific evidence or reasoning to support your questioning. This strengthens your argument and shows thoughtful analysis.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "is it really the case". This can make your writing repetitive and less engaging. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it really the case" functions as an interrogative phrase used to express doubt, skepticism, or to challenge a preceding statement. It prompts the listener or reader to reconsider the validity or truthfulness of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is it really the case" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express skepticism or challenge a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to question assumptions and prompt further examination. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal settings, avoiding overuse for stylistic reasons. Alternatives like ""is that truly so"" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Understanding these nuances will help you use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is that truly so

Emphasizes truthfulness of the statement.

can that actually be true

Expresses stronger doubt and disbelief.

is it actually true

Focuses on the factual accuracy of the statement.

is that really accurate

Questions the precision and correctness of the statement.

could that possibly be correct

Implies surprise and uncertainty about the correctness.

is that a genuine fact

Highlights the authenticity of the statement.

is that indeed so

Uses "indeed" to confirm or question a prior statement.

is this actually happening

Expresses disbelief about a current event or situation.

are you sure that's right

Directly questions someone's certainty about a statement.

can this actually be

A more concise way of expressing doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "is it really the case" in a sentence?

Use "is it really the case" to question a statement or situation you find doubtful. For example: "Is it really the case that all cats hate water?"

What are some alternatives to "is it really the case"?

You can use alternatives like "is that truly so", "is it actually true", or "can that actually be true" depending on the level of skepticism you want to express.

Is it better to use "is it really the case" or "is that really the case"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on the context and personal preference. However, "is it really the case" may sound slightly more formal.

When should I avoid using "is it really the case"?

Avoid using "is it really the case" in very informal settings or when writing to a very broad audience, as it can come across as overly formal or academic. In those cases, simpler phrasing might be more effective.