case - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
case Word Meanings
- a container for holding something
- an instance of a particular situation or example
- a legal matter to be decided in court
case Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
case Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/keɪs/
US
/keɪs/
case Word Etymology
Latin 'casus' (fall, case) composed of 'cadere' (to fall) + 'us' (noun suffix). Originated from Latin to Old French and then into English. Visualize a box that catches everything that falls into it, like a case catching all sorts of instances.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a small case and hold it tight as I move items into it, watching how space shifts under my fingers. I set a folder on the desk and begin to change the order, adjusting each page as I push, pull, and fit them snugly. The act of deciding what to include makes this case feel bigger than a box—it's a turn from simple object to a record of what happened. When the lid is ready, I keep the box close and carry the case with me, letting its contents guide the next steps.
Real Context
Case is a small but versatile word in English with three related meanings. First, it can mean a container or box that holds objects, as in a pencil case or a camera case. Second, it refers to a particular instance or example, such as a case of mistaken identity or a case study. Third, case denotes a legal matter to be decided in court, as in civil or criminal cases. The Latin root casus (fall) hints at events that come under a defined heading, which helps you remember that a case is something that can be considered, discussed, or decided. Pay attention to context to choose the right sense.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Identify whether case refers to a container, a situation, or a legal matter. 2) Use key collocations: case study, in this case, make a case for, court case. 3) Prefer specific words for obvious containers (box, bag, pencil case) instead of relying on the generic term. 4) Watch for fixed phrases with case and of, such as 'case of' or 'case closed.' 5) Practice reading case-related sentences in news or law to improve sense-shift accuracy. 6) Remember the Latin root casus as a memory aid.
Common Misconceptions
- Case has only one meaning (a legal matter).
- Case always means a box or container.
- Case cannot refer to a person or event.
- All uses of case can be translated as 'case' in every context.
- Case is a verb in everyday English.
Thinking Differences
Think of case as a word with three related threads: a container, a situation or example, and a legal matter. In American English these senses are common in everyday talk and in news, but learners often mix 'case' with 'box' when talking about containers or confuse 'case' with 'example' in formal writing. Pay attention to collocations like case study, in this case, make a case for, and court case to signal the legal sense. Remember the Latin root casus to recall that a case is something that can be examined and decided.
Learning Tips
- Know the three core senses: container, instance, and legal matter.
- Learn key collocations: case study, in this case, make a case for, court case.
- Differentiate physical containers with precise words (box, case, pencil case).
- Practice with context-heavy sentences to see which sense fits.
- Use mnemonic links to casus root (Latin) for memory aid.
- Read news or law snippets to see legal 'case' in action.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'case' used correctly?
A.He was in a happy case of emotions.
B.The dog case the ball.
C.The sky turned case in the evening.
D.She bought a new phone case.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'case'?
A.Box
B.Triangle
C.Calm
D.Big
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'case'?
A.Fast
B.Strong
C.Open
D.Angry
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'case'?
A.Shopping for a new laptop bag
B.Choosing a new hairstyle
C.Baking a cake
D.Watching a movie
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App