CASE (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/kɛɪs/

Meaning and Usage

The word "case" has multiple meanings and uses depending on the context. As a noun, "case" can refer to:

1. A container or cover (e.g., a suitcase or a case for a phone).
2. An instance of a particular situation or an example of something (e.g., a legal case).
3. The condition of something (e.g., in case of emergency).
4. In grammar, it refers to the form of a noun or pronoun that indicates its function in a sentence (e.g., nominative case, accusative case).

As a verb, "case" can mean to put something in a case, to examine a location to plan for a crime, or to prepare for a particular situation.

The frequency of use for "case" is quite high, especially in legal contexts, academia, and everyday conversation. It is commonly used in both spoken and written English, though it may appear more frequently in written legal documents, reports, and analyses.

Example Sentences

1. "She put her tablet in a protective case."
   "Ela colocou seu tablet em um estojo protetor."

2. "In this case, we should proceed with caution."
   "Neste caso, devemos proceder com cautela."

3. "The detective is working on a high-profile murder case."
   "O detetive está trabalhando em um caso de homicídio de alto perfil."

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "case" is also used in various idiomatic expressions in English:

1. "In case": Used to indicate a precaution or preparation for a possible event.
   "Take an umbrella in case it rains."
   "Leve um guarda-chuva caso chova."

2. "Just in case": Emphasizing precaution.
   "I'll bring extra food just in case."
   "Vou trazer comida extra só por garantia."

3. "Case in point": An example that illustrates a statement or argument.
   "The new study is a case in point of the changes in climate."
   "O novo estudo é um exemplo claro das mudanças no clima."

4. "Make a case for": To present a reasoned argument.
   "She made a strong case for the need for vaccination."
   "Ela apresentou um argumento forte sobre a necessidade de vacinação."

5. "Case closed": An expression used to indicate that a situation has been resolved.
   "After reviewing the evidence, the investigation is case closed."
   "Após revisar as evidências, a investigação está encerrada."

Etymology

The word "case" originates from the Latin word "casus," meaning "fall," which evolved into the Old French "case" in the context of a container or cover. The development into its modern English usage has expanded significantly over time.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: container, box, instance, example, situation, case study

Antonyms: chaos (in the sense of disorder, though this is a broader use), disarray

Overall, "case" is a versatile word used across various contexts in English, making it an essential component of the language.