case
In this case, the evidence clearly supports the defendant.
This example shows how 'case' refers to a particular legal situation.
a particular situation or example of something
This is a rare case of a bird flying south in winter.
Here, 'case' describes a specific instance of bird behavior.
In most cases, people prefer to travel by plane.
This shows 'case' used to indicate typical situations.
Can be used in both singular and plural forms (e.g., 'cases').
a legal matter being investigated or decided in a court of law
The judge dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.
Here, 'case' refers to a legal matter being handled in court.
She won her case against the company.
This shows 'case' in the context of a legal victory.
Often used with verbs like 'bring', 'dismiss', or 'win'.
a container or box used for storing or protecting something
The jeweler placed the ring in a velvet case.
Here, 'case' refers to a protective container.
I need a sturdy case for my laptop.
This shows 'case' as a protective covering.
Commonly used in phrases like 'briefcase' or 'suitcase'.
a set of circumstances or conditions
In this case, the patient showed no symptoms of the disease.
Here, 'case' describes a specific medical scenario.
Often used in medical or scientific contexts to describe a patient or instance.
to examine or inspect something carefully
The detective will case the area before the operation.
Here, 'case' means to inspect a location for planning purposes.
Less common; often used in the phrase 'case the joint' (slang for scouting a location).
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing meanings
If 'case' refers to a legal matter, it often appears with words like 'judge', 'evidence', or 'verdict'. If it refers to a container, it may appear with words like 'box', 'protective', or 'storage'.
Gold Rule
Context is key
Always check the context to determine whether 'case' refers to a situation, legal matter, container, or action.
Word Origin
Middle English from Old French cas from Latin casus 'fall, occurrence, chance' from cadere 'to fall'.
Usage Notes
The word 'case' is highly versatile and can refer to situations, legal matters, containers, or actions depending on context. Pay attention to the surrounding words to determine the correct meaning.