the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the case" can be used in written English.
It is most commonly used to refer to a lawsuit or a legal matter. For example: "The case was decided in the defendant's favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The case was typical.

The New York Times

"That's never the case.

The New York Times

Then the case died.

The New York Times

Kaplan is the case.

The New Yorker

That's hardly the case.

Forbes

The case went beautifully.

The New Yorker

But the case stalled.

The New York Times

The case went nowhere.

The New York Times

Neither was the case.

The New Yorker

handled the case appropriately.

The New York Times - Sports

Not the case, apparently.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the case" in legal contexts, ensure clarity by specifying which case you're referring to, especially if multiple cases are under discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "the case" repeatedly in close proximity without providing sufficient context. This can lead to ambiguity and confusion for the reader. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the case" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As shown by Ludwig, it refers to a specific instance, situation, or legal proceeding. Ludwig AI confirms it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the case" functions as a noun phrase, typically referring to a specific situation, legal matter, or instance. Its usage is widespread across various contexts, including news, science, and wiki articles. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct. While its formality is generally neutral, context is the major factor. To maintain clarity, avoid overuse without sufficient context and specify which case you're referring to, especially in legal settings. As Ludwig examples reveal, "the case" is a versatile phrase for providing specific context and information about a particular matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the situation

Replaces "case" with a more general term for a set of circumstances.

the matter

Substitutes "case" with a term emphasizing a subject of discussion or concern.

the instance

Replaces "case" with a term highlighting a specific occurrence or example.

the affair

Substitutes "case" with a term suggesting an event or incident, often of public interest.

the circumstance

Replaces "case" with a term focusing on the surrounding conditions or facts.

the lawsuit

Replaces "case" specifically within a legal context.

the trial

Substitutes "case" with a term denoting a legal proceeding.

the example

Replaces "case" with a term pointing to a specific instance used for illustration.

the event

Substitutes "case" with a broader term for something that happens or takes place.

the problem

Replaces "case" emphasizing a difficulty or challenge.

FAQs

How is "the case" used in a sentence?

The phrase "the case" is used to refer to a specific situation, legal matter, or instance being discussed. For example: "The case is closed" or "That's not the case".

What's a synonym for "the case"?

Synonyms for "the case" include "the situation", "the matter", or "the circumstance", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "in the case of"?

Yes, "in the case of" is a correct and commonly used phrase to indicate a specific situation or instance. For example: "In case of fire, break glass."

What does it mean when someone says "the case remains open"?

When someone says "the case remains open", it means that the investigation or legal proceedings related to a particular matter have not been concluded and are still ongoing.