At the A1 level, 'case' is mostly used as a physical object. It is a noun that describes a container. You will see it in words like 'pencil case' (a small bag for your pens and pencils) or 'suitcase' (a big bag for your clothes when you travel). At this level, you should focus on how 'case' helps you organize your things. It is a countable noun, so you can say 'one case' or 'two cases.' You might also hear 'phone case' to protect your mobile phone. The word is simple and concrete. You use it to talk about things you can touch and carry. For example, 'Where is my pencil case?' or 'I have a blue suitcase.' It is important to learn these compound words because they are very common in school and travel contexts. Don't worry about the more difficult meanings yet; just think of a 'case' as a special box for a specific item.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'case' in some very common phrases that describe situations. The most important one is 'just in case.' We use this when we do something to be safe. For example, 'Take an umbrella just in case it rains.' You also learn 'in case of,' which is often seen on signs, like 'In case of fire, use the stairs.' Here, 'case' means 'situation' or 'event.' You still use the physical meaning (like 'suitcase'), but you are starting to see how 'case' can represent an idea. You might also hear 'in this case' when someone is talking about a specific example. For example, 'Most birds can fly, but in the case of penguins, they swim.' This helps you compare different things. At this level, you are moving from 'case' as a box to 'case' as a situation.
At the B1 level, 'case' becomes a tool for more detailed communication. You will use it in professional or academic settings. For example, you might talk about a 'medical case' or a 'legal case.' In these contexts, 'case' refers to a specific person's situation that is being studied or decided. You will also use the phrase 'it is the case that' to mean 'it is true that.' For example, 'It is often the case that people feel tired in the winter.' This sounds more formal and professional than just saying 'It is true.' You also learn 'the case for' and 'the case against' when you are having a debate or writing an essay. If you are making 'the case for' more holidays, you are giving reasons why more holidays are good. You are also expected to use 'in any case' as a transition word, similar to 'anyway.'
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the abstract and idiomatic uses of 'case.' You will encounter 'worst-case scenario' and 'best-case scenario' when discussing possibilities and risks. These phrases are very common in business and planning. You will also see 'case study,' which is a detailed report about a person, group, or situation over time, often used in sociology or business classes. You should understand the nuance of 'in case' versus 'if' perfectly. Furthermore, you might use 'case' in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'such being the case' (meaning 'because of this situation'). You are also likely to encounter 'case' in literature or high-level journalism, where it might refer to a 'compelling case' (a very strong argument). Your use of the word should reflect a balance between its physical, situational, and argumentative meanings.
At the C1 level, you use 'case' with precision and stylistic variety. You understand its role in formal logic and legal discourse. You might use the phrase 'prima facie case' (a case that seems true at first sight) or discuss the 'merits of the case.' You are also aware of 'case' in linguistics, referring to the grammatical category (like the dative or accusative case), even if English doesn't use many of them. You can use 'case' to create sophisticated transitions in your writing, such as 'This being the case...' or 'If such a case should arise...' You also recognize subtle idioms like 'to state one's case' (to clearly explain your position) or 'to be on someone's case' (to constantly criticize them). At this level, 'case' is no longer just a word; it is a versatile building block for constructing complex arguments and navigating formal social structures.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'case' is complete. You can use it in highly specialized fields, from law to philosophy to medicine, with total accuracy. You understand the historical development of the word and how its two Latin roots merged. You can use 'case' in rare or archaic-sounding formal structures to achieve a specific tone, such as 'as the case may be.' You are also adept at using it in rhetorical strategies, perhaps by 'restating the case' for a long-held belief or 'dismissing the case' for an opposing view. You can handle the most complex idioms, like 'a case in point' (a perfect example) or 'making a federal case out of something' (exaggerating a small problem). Your understanding of 'case' allows you to perceive the structure of an argument or a situation instantly, and you use the word to define the boundaries of your discussion with absolute clarity.

case 30秒で

  • A physical container like a suitcase or phone case used for protection.
  • A specific instance or example of a situation occurring in real life.
  • A legal matter or medical condition being studied or decided by experts.
  • A common part of phrases like 'just in case' to show preparation.

The word case is a fascinating linguistic bridge that connects the physical world of objects with the abstract world of logic and law. At its most basic level, which learners encounter early on, a case is a physical container. Think of a pencil case or a suitcase. These are objects designed to hold, protect, and organize other items. This physical meaning stems from the Latin word capsa, meaning a box or chest. However, as you progress in English, you will find that case is used far more frequently to describe a specific instance, example, or situation. This second meaning comes from a different Latin root, casus, which means a chance, accident, or event. In modern English, these two roots have merged into one spelling, but they serve very different purposes in conversation. People use the abstract version of 'case' to narrow down a discussion to a single point in time or a specific set of circumstances. For example, if you are discussing a general rule, you might say, 'In this specific case, the rule does not apply.' This allows for precision in communication, especially in professional fields like medicine, law, and engineering.

Physical Container
A box or holder used for carrying or protecting things, such as a phone case or a violin case.
Specific Instance
An occurrence of something; a particular situation that is being discussed or investigated.
Legal/Medical Context
A matter that is being decided in a court of law or a specific person being treated by a doctor.

I bought a waterproof case for my new smartphone to protect it at the beach.

In everyday conversation, the word is ubiquitous in phrases like 'just in case.' This is a precautionary phrase used when someone does something to prepare for a possibility, even if it is unlikely. For instance, 'I will bring an umbrella just in case it rains.' Here, 'case' represents the potential event of rain. Furthermore, in professional environments, 'making a case' for something means providing reasons and evidence to support an idea or a request. If you want a promotion, you must make a case for why you deserve it by highlighting your achievements. This versatility makes 'case' one of the most useful nouns in the English language, functioning as both a tangible noun and a logical tool. Whether you are packing a suitcase for a trip or arguing a legal case in court, the word provides a structure for containing either physical goods or intellectual arguments.

The detective spent months working on the murder case before finding a lead.

In many cases, people prefer to work from home to save time on commuting.

Please put your glasses back in their case so they do not get scratched.

The lawyer presented a strong case to the jury this morning.

Using 'case' correctly requires understanding whether you are referring to an object or a situation. When referring to an object, 'case' usually follows a descriptive noun. For example, 'I need a new phone case.' Here, the word 'phone' acts as an adjective describing the type of case. In these instances, 'case' is a countable noun, meaning you can have one case or many cases. You can use articles like 'a', 'an', or 'the' before it. When you move into the abstract meaning of 'situation,' the grammar becomes slightly more idiomatic. Phrases like 'in case of' are followed by a noun representing a potential emergency or event, such as 'in case of fire.' Notice that we often omit the article 'the' in these fixed expressions. This is a common point of confusion for learners. Another frequent structure is 'in that case,' which is used as a transition to respond to new information. If someone says, 'I'm allergic to nuts,' you might respond, 'In that case, we should not go to the Thai restaurant.'

Prepositional Use
'In case' is often followed by a clause: 'Take a coat in case it gets cold.'
Possessive Use
'The case of the missing keys' uses 'of' to describe the subject of an investigation.
Quantifiers
Use 'many cases,' 'some cases,' or 'most cases' to generalize about situations.

In case of an emergency, please use the stairs instead of the elevator.

Furthermore, 'case' is used in the phrase 'as is the case with.' This is a formal way to say 'as is true for.' For example, 'As is the case with many students, he finds exams stressful.' This structure is very common in academic writing and formal reports. It helps to link a specific example to a general trend. Another important usage is 'the case for' or 'the case against.' This is used when presenting arguments. 'The case for renewable energy is becoming stronger every year.' Here, 'case' means a set of arguments or facts supporting a particular conclusion. In medical contexts, a 'case' refers to an individual patient's condition or the history of their illness. Doctors might discuss a 'rare case of the flu.' In all these examples, the word 'case' acts as a container—sometimes for physical objects, but more often for facts, arguments, or specific instances of a phenomenon.

That is simply not the case; the facts prove otherwise.

The word 'case' is a staple in several distinct environments, each giving it a slightly different flavor. If you are at an airport, you will hear it constantly in the context of 'suitcases' and 'briefcases.' Announcements might warn you not to leave your 'cases' unattended. In this physical setting, the word is literal and practical. However, if you step into a courtroom or watch a legal drama on television, 'case' takes on a much more serious, abstract meaning. Lawyers talk about 'building a case,' 'winning a case,' or 'the prosecution's case.' Here, it represents the entire legal proceeding and the evidence associated with it. You will also hear it in news reports when a crime is being discussed, often referred to as an 'ongoing investigation into the case.' This usage implies a mystery or a problem that needs to be solved through logic and evidence.

In the Hospital
Doctors discuss 'patient cases' to review symptoms and treatments during rounds.
In the Office
Managers might ask for a 'business case' to justify the budget for a new project.
In Retail
You might see 'display cases' in jewelry stores or bakeries holding items for sale.

The doctor said it was an unusual case of vitamin deficiency in such a young person.

In the world of technology and social media, you will hear about 'phone cases' and 'computer cases.' These are essential accessories for protecting expensive hardware. In a more abstract sense, tech companies often present 'use cases' for their software. A 'use case' is a description of how a person might actually use a product in a real-world scenario. For example, a use case for a new app might be 'a busy parent trying to organize a grocery list.' This helps developers understand their users' needs. Additionally, in everyday casual English, you will hear people say 'get off my case.' This is an informal way of telling someone to stop criticizing or nagging them. It suggests that the person is treating the speaker like a legal 'case' to be analyzed or judged. Whether in a high-stakes legal battle or a simple trip to the store, 'case' is a word that helps us categorize and contain the complexities of life.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'case' is confusing 'in case' with 'if.' While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'In case' is used for preparation, while 'if' is used for a condition. If you say, 'I will take an umbrella if it rains,' you will only take the umbrella at the moment the rain starts. If you say, 'I will take an umbrella in case it rains,' you are taking it now because rain is a possibility later. Another common error is using 'case' when 'box' or 'container' might be more specific, although 'case' is often a safe general term. For example, a 'shipping case' is usually a large, sturdy container, but a small cardboard box is rarely called a 'case' unless it contains a specific quantity of items, like a 'case of beer' (usually 24 cans).

In case vs. In case of
'In case' is followed by a subject and verb: 'In case he comes.' 'In case of' is followed by a noun: 'In case of fire.'
Pluralization
Learners sometimes say 'In these case' instead of 'In these cases' or 'In this case.'
The Case vs. True
Saying 'It is not the case' is more formal than 'It is not true.' Don't over-use it in casual speech.

Incorrect: I'll bring a map if I get lost. (You can't bring it after you're already lost!)

Another mistake involves the phrase 'just in case.' Some learners try to add more words to it, like 'just in the case' or 'just in case of,' but 'just in case' is a complete idiomatic unit that usually comes at the end of a sentence or stands alone. For example, 'I don't think it will snow, but I'll bring my boots just in case.' Additionally, in legal or medical contexts, learners might confuse 'case' with 'patient' or 'client.' While a doctor has a 'case,' the 'case' is the medical situation, while the 'patient' is the person. You treat the patient, but you study the case. Misusing these can make your speech sound slightly dehumanizing or technically incorrect. Finally, remember that 'case' as a physical object is almost always countable. You cannot say 'I have much case'; you must say 'I have many cases' or 'a lot of cases.'

Depending on the context, 'case' has many synonyms that can add variety to your writing. If you are talking about a physical container, alternatives include box, container, holder, shell, or casing. A 'phone case' is often called a 'phone cover' or 'phone shell.' A 'briefcase' is a specific type of 'bag' or 'attache.' If you are using 'case' to mean a situation, you might use instance, example, occurrence, circumstance, or scenario. For example, 'In this scenario' is a common alternative to 'In this case' when discussing hypothetical situations in business or science. In legal contexts, 'case' can be replaced by lawsuit, trial, proceeding, or matter. A lawyer might say, 'This matter is currently before the court,' which sounds slightly more formal than 'This case is in court.'

Case vs. Instance
'Case' often implies a whole set of circumstances, while 'instance' refers to a single occurrence of something.
Case vs. Box
A 'box' is usually square and made of cardboard; a 'case' is often specially designed for a specific object (like a violin).
Case vs. Scenario
'Scenario' is used for imagined or future events; 'case' is used for both real and imagined ones.

This is a classic example (or case) of how miscommunication can lead to big problems.

In medical terminology, a 'case' is often interchangeable with condition or presentation. A doctor might say, 'The patient presented with a severe case of pneumonia,' or 'The patient's condition is severe.' In more abstract logic, 'the case' is often synonymous with the truth or the reality. When you say, 'That is not the case,' you are essentially saying, 'That is not true.' Using these alternatives can help you sound more precise. For instance, using 'circumstance' emphasizes the conditions surrounding an event, while 'instance' emphasizes the event itself. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to focus on the container, the event, or the evidence. By mastering these synonyms, you can tailor your English to be more descriptive and professional.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

Because 'case' comes from two different Latin words, it is a 'homonym'—one word with two completely different histories that ended up looking the same.

発音ガイド

UK /keɪs/
US /keɪs/
Single syllable word, so the stress is on the entire word.
韻が合う語
base face lace pace race space trace grace
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the 's' as a 'z' (like 'caze').
  • Shortening the vowel to 'e' (like 'kess').

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to read in most contexts.

ライティング 3/5

Requires care with 'in case' vs 'if'.

スピーキング 2/5

Common phrases are easy to learn.

リスニング 3/5

Must distinguish between physical and abstract meanings.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

box bag if example situation

次に学ぶ

instance circumstance scenario evidence legal

上級

prima facie jurisdiction precedent nominative accusative

知っておくべき文法

In case vs. If

I'll take a coat in case it's cold (precaution). I'll take a coat if it's cold (condition).

Zero article with 'in case of'

In case of fire (not 'the fire').

Inversion with 'In no case'

In no case should you tell him.

Compound nouns

Suitcase, bookcase, pencil case.

Plural agreement

In these cases (not 'this cases').

レベル別の例文

1

I have a small pencil case for my pens.

J'ai une petite trousse pour mes stylos.

Pencil case is a compound noun.

2

Put your phone in its case.

Mets ton téléphone dans sa coque.

Possessive 'its' refers to the phone.

3

Is this your suitcase?

Est-ce que c'est ta valise ?

Interrogative sentence.

4

The glasses are in the case.

Les lunettes sont dans l'étui.

Definite article 'the' used for a specific case.

5

I need a new case for my violin.

J'ai besoin d'un nouvel étui pour mon violon.

Countable noun 'a case'.

6

She has two cases for her camera.

Elle a deux étuis pour son appareil photo.

Plural form 'cases'.

7

This case is very heavy.

Cette valise est très lourde.

Demonstrative adjective 'this'.

8

Open your case and show me.

Ouvre ta valise et montre-moi.

Imperative verb 'open'.

1

Take a map just in case you get lost.

Prends une carte au cas où tu te perdrais.

'Just in case' acts as a precaution.

2

In case of rain, the party will be inside.

En cas de pluie, la fête aura lieu à l'intérieur.

'In case of' is followed by a noun.

3

In this case, you are right.

Dans ce cas, tu as raison.

'In this case' refers to a specific situation.

4

I will call you just in case.

Je t'appellerai juste au cas où.

'Just in case' can end a sentence.

5

In most cases, the bus is on time.

Dans la plupart des cas, le bus est à l'heure.

Plural 'cases' used for general situations.

6

The police are looking at the case.

La police examine l'affaire.

'Case' here means a police investigation.

7

Keep this paper in case you need it.

Garde ce papier au cas où tu en aurais besoin.

'In case' followed by a clause.

8

In that case, let's go now.

Dans ce cas, partons maintenant.

'In that case' is a transition phrase.

1

The doctor studied the patient's case carefully.

Le médecin a étudié attentivement le cas du patient.

Medical context.

2

There is a strong case for changing the law.

Il y a de solides arguments en faveur d'un changement de loi.

'The case for' means arguments in favor.

3

It is often the case that children like sweets.

Il arrive souvent que les enfants aiment les bonbons.

'It is the case that' means 'it is true that'.

4

In any case, we should finish the work today.

En tout cas, nous devrions finir le travail aujourd'hui.

'In any case' is used like 'anyway'.

5

The lawyer won the case in court.

L'avocat a gagné le procès au tribunal.

Legal context.

6

This is a classic case of mistaken identity.

C'est un cas classique d'erreur sur la personne.

'Classic case' is a common collocation.

7

We need to prepare a business case for the project.

Nous devons préparer un dossier commercial pour le projet.

Business context.

8

In some cases, the medicine has side effects.

Dans certains cas, le médicament a des effets secondaires.

Used for scientific reporting.

1

We must plan for the worst-case scenario.

Nous devons prévoir le pire des scénarios.

Compound adjective 'worst-case'.

2

The case study showed that the strategy worked.

L'étude de cas a montré que la stratégie fonctionnait.

'Case study' is a research method.

3

As is the case with many artists, she is very creative.

Comme c'est le cas pour de nombreux artistes, elle est très créative.

Formal comparison structure.

4

The prosecution presented their case first.

L'accusation a présenté ses arguments en premier.

Legal terminology.

5

He made a compelling case for the new policy.

Il a présenté des arguments convaincants en faveur de la nouvelle politique.

'Compelling case' means a strong argument.

6

In no case should you open this door.

En aucun cas vous ne devez ouvrir cette porte.

Inversion after a negative phrase.

7

The detective is still working on the cold case.

Le détective travaille toujours sur l'affaire classée.

'Cold case' refers to an unsolved old crime.

8

That is simply not the case, and I can prove it.

Ce n'est tout simplement pas le cas, et je peux le prouver.

Emphatic denial.

1

The merits of the case were debated for hours.

Le bien-fondé de l'affaire a été débattu pendant des heures.

'Merits of the case' refers to the actual facts.

2

This being the case, we have no choice but to resign.

Cela étant, nous n'avons d'autre choix que de démissionner.

Absolute construction.

3

He has a prima facie case for compensation.

Il a des arguments suffisants à première vue pour obtenir une indemnisation.

Latin legal term 'prima facie'.

4

Stop being on my case about the housework!

Arrête de me harceler pour les tâches ménagères !

Idiomatic 'on someone's case'.

5

The evidence in the case was circumstantial at best.

Les preuves dans cette affaire étaient au mieux indirectes.

Legal adjective 'circumstantial'.

6

The report makes a strong case against further spending.

Le rapport présente des arguments solides contre de nouvelles dépenses.

'Case against' is the opposite of 'case for'.

7

Each case is judged on its own individual merits.

Chaque cas est jugé selon ses propres mérites.

Emphasis on individuality.

8

The dative case is difficult for English speakers to learn.

Le cas datif est difficile à apprendre pour les anglophones.

Linguistic meaning of 'case'.

1

The philosopher restated the case for ethical egoism.

Le philosophe a reformulé les arguments en faveur de l'égoïsme éthique.

Academic rhetorical use.

2

You are making a federal case out of a minor mistake.

Tu en fais toute une histoire pour une petite erreur.

Idiom meaning to exaggerate.

3

The findings are a case in point for our theory.

Les résultats sont une parfaite illustration de notre théorie.

'Case in point' means a perfect example.

4

The judge dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.

Le juge a classé l'affaire par manque de preuves.

Formal legal action.

5

If such a case should arise, we are fully prepared.

Si un tel cas devait se présenter, nous sommes tout à fait prêts.

Subjunctive 'should' for hypothetical.

6

The case for intervention is fraught with moral complexity.

Les arguments en faveur d'une intervention sont pleins de complexité morale.

High-level abstract noun use.

7

As the case may be, we will adjust our strategy accordingly.

Selon le cas, nous adapterons notre stratégie en conséquence.

Formal idiom for varying circumstances.

8

The patient presented a textbook case of the rare syndrome.

Le patient présentait un cas d'école du syndrome rare.

'Textbook case' means a perfect, standard example.

よく使う組み合わせ

just in case
in any case
pencil case
court case
worst-case scenario
phone case
medical case
case study
make a case
in case of

よく使うフレーズ

In this case

— In this specific situation.

In this case, we will make an exception.

Just in case

— As a precaution for a possible event.

I'll bring a jacket just in case.

In any case

— Regardless of what happens; anyway.

In any case, the decision is final.

The case for

— Arguments in favor of something.

The case for a shorter work week is strong.

As is the case

— As is true or common.

As is the case with many, he loves coffee.

In case of emergency

— If an emergency happens.

In case of emergency, call 911.

A case in point

— A perfect example of what is being discussed.

His success is a case in point.

Make a case

— To argue that something should be done.

He made a case for more funding.

On someone's case

— To criticize or nag someone constantly.

My boss is always on my case about being late.

Case closed

— The matter is finished and decided.

I won't discuss it anymore. Case closed.

よく混同される語

case vs box

A box is usually for storage; a case is often for protection or a specific item.

case vs if

'If' is conditional; 'in case' is precautionary.

case vs event

An event is something that happens; a case is the situation surrounding it.

慣用句と表現

"Get off my case"

— Stop criticizing or nagging me.

Get off my case! I'll do the dishes later.

informal
"Worst-case scenario"

— The most unpleasant thing that could happen.

In the worst-case scenario, we lose the house.

neutral
"Make a federal case out of it"

— To treat a small problem as if it were very important.

It was just a small scratch; don't make a federal case out of it.

informal
"Case in point"

— A relevant example that proves a point.

Many people hate winter. My sister is a case in point.

neutral
"In any case"

— Whatever happens; anyway.

It might rain, but in any case, I'm going.

neutral
"Open and shut case"

— A legal case or problem that is very easy to solve.

With the video evidence, it's an open and shut case.

neutral
"Building a case"

— Gathering evidence to prove someone did something wrong.

The police are building a case against the suspect.

neutral
"State your case"

— To give your reasons or arguments for something.

Please state your case to the committee.

formal
"A basket case"

— Someone who is extremely nervous or unable to function.

Before the exam, I was a total basket case.

informal
"Just in case"

— To be prepared for a possibility.

I'll take some extra money just in case.

neutral

間違えやすい

case vs Cause

Similar spelling and sound.

A cause is a reason why something happens; a case is the instance of it happening.

The cause of the fire was a match. The case is being investigated.

case vs Chase

Similar sound.

Chase is a verb meaning to run after someone; case is a noun.

The police chase the thief. The case is closed.

case vs Cash

Similar sound.

Cash is money; case is a container or situation.

I have no cash in my case.

case vs Base

Rhyming word.

Base is the bottom of something; case is a container.

The base of the case is broken.

case vs Phase

Rhyming word.

A phase is a stage in a process; a case is a specific instance.

This is just a phase. In this case, it's permanent.

文型パターン

A1

I have a [noun] case.

I have a pencil case.

A2

[Verb] just in case.

Take an umbrella just in case.

A2

In case of [noun], [verb].

In case of fire, run.

B1

In this case, [clause].

In this case, we can help.

B1

It is the case that [clause].

It is the case that he is late.

B2

The case for [noun] is [adjective].

The case for reform is strong.

C1

This being the case, [clause].

This being the case, we must leave.

C2

As the case may be, [clause].

As the case may be, we will act.

語族

名詞

case
casing
casework
suitcase
briefcase
bookcase

動詞

case (to examine a place, usually before a crime)

形容詞

caseless

関連

casual
casualty
occasion
incident
instance

使い方

frequency

Extremely common in both spoken and written English.

よくある間違い
  • I'll take an umbrella if it rains. I'll take an umbrella in case it rains.

    You take the umbrella before the rain, so use 'in case'.

  • In this cases, we are happy. In these cases, we are happy.

    Plural 'cases' needs plural 'these'.

  • In the case of fire, run. In case of fire, run.

    The fixed phrase 'in case of' usually doesn't need 'the'.

  • He made a case to the new job. He made a case for the new job.

    Use 'for' when giving arguments in favor of something.

  • Get off my cases! Get off my case!

    The idiom is always singular.

ヒント

In case of + Noun

Always follow 'in case of' with a noun, like 'in case of emergency' or 'in case of fire'.

Use 'Instance'

To sound more varied, use 'instance' instead of 'case' when talking about examples.

Transitioning

Use 'In that case' to show you are listening and responding to what someone just said.

Formal Essays

Use 'It is the case that' instead of 'It is true that' to sound more academic.

Context Clues

If you hear 'case' at an airport, it's a bag. If you hear it in a hospital, it's a patient.

Just in Case

You can use 'just in case' at the very end of a sentence without adding anything else.

Court Terms

A 'cold case' is an old crime that hasn't been solved yet.

Patient History

A 'case history' is the record of a person's past medical problems.

Use Case

A 'use case' describes how a customer uses a product in real life.

Long A

Make sure the 'a' in 'case' sounds like the 'a' in 'name'.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a 'case' as a 'box'. A suitcase is a box for clothes. A court case is a 'box' of evidence.

視覚的連想

Imagine a clear plastic phone case. It contains the phone. Now imagine a bubble containing a specific situation. That is a 'case' too.

Word Web

suitcase pencil case just in case in case of court case medical case case study phone case

チャレンジ

Try to use the word 'case' three times in one sentence using different meanings.

語源

The word 'case' comes from two distinct Latin roots. The physical container meaning comes from 'capsa' (box). The situational meaning comes from 'casus' (event/chance).

元の意味: A box (capsa) or a fall/event (casus).

Indo-European (Latin -> Old French -> Middle English).

文化的な背景

Be careful using 'case' for people (e.g., 'He is a sad case'). It can sound cold or insulting.

The legal system in the US and UK is based on 'case law,' where previous court cases decide future rules.

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes Cold Case (TV show)

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Travel

  • pack a suitcase
  • carry-on case
  • lost luggage
  • heavy case

Law

  • win a case
  • lose a case
  • legal case
  • build a case

Medicine

  • rare case
  • patient case
  • case history
  • severe case

Daily Life

  • just in case
  • phone case
  • pencil case
  • in any case

Business

  • business case
  • use case
  • worst-case scenario
  • case study

会話のきっかけ

"What do you usually keep in your pencil case?"

"Have you ever lost a suitcase while traveling?"

"In what case would you decide to quit your job?"

"Do you use a protective case for your phone?"

"What is the worst-case scenario for your next project?"

日記のテーマ

Describe a case where you had to change your mind about something.

Write about what you would pack in your suitcase for a dream vacation.

Discuss a legal case you heard about in the news recently.

Think of a time someone was 'on your case.' How did you feel?

Make a case for why your favorite hobby is the best one.

よくある質問

10 問

Use 'in case' for things you do to prepare for a possible future event (e.g., 'I'll bring a coat in case it rains'). Use 'if' for things you will only do if that event actually happens (e.g., 'I'll put on a coat if it rains').

Yes, but it is informal and usually means to look at a place carefully, often to plan a crime (e.g., 'They were casing the bank').

It means 'as a precaution.' You use it when you do something because something else might happen, even if you don't think it will.

It is usually written as two separate words, though it acts as a single compound noun.

A case study is a detailed investigation of a single person, group, or event to learn more about a larger topic.

It is an informal way to tell someone to stop nagging you or criticizing your actions.

Use it when you want to say 'anyway' or 'regardless of what was just said.' It helps you return to your main point.

It is the absolute worst thing that could possibly happen in a situation.

It refers to the set of reasons and evidence that support a particular idea or action.

Yes, 'case' is a countable noun. You can say 'one case,' 'two cases,' or 'many cases.'

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Describe what is in your pencil case.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence using 'just in case'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain a 'worst-case scenario' for a trip.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Make a case for why schools should start later.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe a 'case study' you have read.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What would you do in case of a fire?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a short story about a 'cold case'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

How do you feel when someone is 'on your case'?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Compare 'in case' and 'if' with examples.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe your favorite phone case.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a dialogue using 'in that case'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain 'prima facie' in your own words.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What is the 'case for' renewable energy?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe a 'textbook case' of a common cold.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Why is a 'briefcase' called that?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write about a 'basket case' situation.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

State your case for a longer weekend.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What are the merits of your favorite case?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Use 'as is the case with' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a formal letter using 'it is the case that'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Tell me about your suitcase.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

When do you use 'just in case'?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe a 'worst-case scenario' for your day.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Make a case for why we should eat pizza.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Tell a story about a 'cold case'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

What would you do in case of a power cut?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain 'in any case' to a friend.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about a 'case study' you know.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Tell someone to 'get off your case'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss 'the case for' working from home.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe a 'textbook case' of something.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

What is in your pencil case right now?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

How do you use 'in that case'?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain 'prima facie' to a partner.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about a 'legal case' from a movie.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

When are you a 'basket case'?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

State your case for a holiday.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Why do we need phone cases?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

What is 'the case against' social media?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Use 'as is the case with' in a talk.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'I'll take an umbrella just in case.' Why?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'The case is in court tomorrow.' What is it?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'Get off my case!' Is the person happy?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'Worst-case scenario: we miss the bus.' What's the risk?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'Put it in your pencil case.' Where does it go?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'In case of fire, leave.' What's the rule?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'In any case, I'm coming.' Is the speaker coming?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'He made a case for it.' Did he argue for it?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'A case in point is this.' Is this an example?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'The case study is done.' Is the research over?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'In that case, let's go.' What's the decision?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'It's a cold case.' Is it a new crime?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'My suitcase is lost.' What happened?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'The merits of the case.' What are they discussing?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: 'Prima facie, it's true.' Does it seem true?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
error correction

I'll take a map if I get lost.

正解! おしい! 正解: I'll take a map in case I get lost.
error correction

In this cases, we are lucky.

正解! おしい! 正解: In this case, we are lucky.
error correction

He is on my cases all day.

正解! おしい! 正解: He is on my case all day.
error correction

In the case of fire, use stairs.

正解! おしい! 正解: In case of fire, use stairs.
error correction

He made a case to a raise.

正解! おしい! 正解: He made a case for a raise.
error correction

It is the case which he is late.

正解! おしい! 正解: It is the case that he is late.
error correction

Just in the case, I'll wait.

正解! おしい! 正解: Just in case, I'll wait.
error correction

In any cases, I'm going.

正解! おしい! 正解: In any case, I'm going.
error correction

The worst case scenario happened.

正解! おしい! 正解: The worst-case scenario happened.
error correction

A case on point is this.

正解! おしい! 正解: A case in point is this.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

関連コンテンツ

Otherの関連語

abate

C1

嵐は夜明けごろに衰え始めた。

abcarndom

C1

エンジニアは隠れたバグを見つけるために、テストシーケンスをabcarndomすることに決めた。

abcenthood

C1

不在の状態、特にあなたの存在が期待されているか重要な場合。 (The state of being absent, especially when your presence is expected or important.) その長期にわたる不在は問題を引き起こした。 (That prolonged absence caused problems.)

abcitless

C1

完全または論理的なものにするための、基本的で必要な部分が欠けている状態を指します。(Describes something missing a basic, necessary part that makes something complete or logical.)

abcognacy

C1

特定の主題、特に専門的または学術的な文脈における無知または無自覚の状態。研究者たちは、気候変動に関する社会の歴史的な「abcognacy」について議論しました。

abdocion

C1

中心軸または確立された基準から離れる動きや力を表します。

abdocly

C1

奥まったところに隠されている、あるいは観察者にはすぐには見えない隠れた方法で起こる状態を表します。主に技術的または学術的な文脈で、より大きなシステムの中に隠されている構造的要素や生物学的プロセスを指すために使用されます。

aberration

B2

収差(アベレーション)とは、通常、正常、または期待されるものからの逸脱のことです。

abfacible

C1

古代の彫刻の表面を<strong>剥離</strong>(abfacible)して、元のディテールを明らかにし、その保存状態を評価します。

abfactency

C1

「abfactency」は、経験的な事実や客観的な現実から根本的に切り離されている性質や状態を表します。

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