was a case in point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was a case in point" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to illustrate a specific example that supports a broader argument or point being made. Example: "The recent study on climate change was a case in point, demonstrating the urgent need for action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Morecambe was a case in point.

Independent

The dinner was a case in point.

The New York Times

"Adoracion" was a case in point.

The New York Times - Arts

This game was a case in point.

Independent

Nutella was a case in point.

The Economist

Last week was a case in point.

The Guardian - Opinion

Our relationship was a case in point.

The Guardian

The plebiscite was a case in point.

The New York Times

Last Friday was a case in point.

The Guardian - Opinion

Vietnam was a case in point.

The Washington Post

Heidi's Hunter was a case in point.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was a case in point" to introduce a specific instance or example that clearly supports a broader claim or argument you are making. This helps to clarify your points and make them more persuasive.

Common error

While "was a case in point" is a useful phrase, avoid using it excessively within a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your examples.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was a case in point" functions as a transitional phrase, specifically used to introduce an illustrative example that supports a preceding statement or argument. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was a case in point" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to introduce an illustrative example that strengthens a preceding argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is effective in clarifying and supporting claims across various contexts. While it's particularly common in news and media, it is suitable for formal writing and maintains a neutral register. To avoid repetition, writers should consider alternatives like "was a prime example" or "served as an illustration". Using this phrase judiciously enhances clarity and persuasiveness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was a prime example

Replaces "case in point" with "prime example", emphasizing the exemplary nature of the instance.

was a perfect illustration

Substitutes "case in point" with "perfect illustration", highlighting how clearly the instance exemplifies the point.

served as an illustration

Uses "served as an illustration" to indicate the example's function in clarifying a point.

exemplified this

Replaces the entire phrase with a more concise verb-based expression.

demonstrated this

Similar to 'exemplified this', but emphasizes the demonstration aspect of the example.

showed this clearly

Highlights the clarity with which the example supports the point.

is indicative of

Shifts the focus to the example being representative of a larger trend or pattern.

is evidence of

Presents the example as proof or support for a claim.

to illustrate

Offers a more direct and simple way to introduce an example.

as an instance

Provides a more general way to introduce a specific occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "was a case in point" in a sentence?

Use "was a case in point" to introduce an example that supports a previous statement. For instance: "The company's declining sales figures were concerning. Last quarter's results "was a case in point", showing a significant drop in revenue."

What are some alternatives to "was a case in point"?

You can use alternatives such as "was a prime example", "served as an illustration", or "exemplified this" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "was a case in point" in formal writing?

Yes, "was a case in point" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that its use aligns with the overall tone and style of your document. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives if appropriate.

What is the difference between "was a case in point" and "for example"?

"Was a case in point" is used to emphasize that the example strongly supports a preceding argument or point. "For example" is a more general way to introduce an example without necessarily highlighting its strength as evidence.