Cool MateExample vs The case
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Example
Top 1,000 (very common)A1noun
The case
Top 1,000 (very common)
| Example | The case | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪɡˈzɑːmpl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪɡˈzæmpl/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ðə keɪs//🇺🇸 //ðə keɪs// |
| Meaning | A sample or model of something to show how it works. | A container or situation related to something. |
| Example | Please follow this example to complete your assignment. | This is the case we need to solve first. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | A1 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | characteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/the example, example of, characteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/the example, example of, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebody, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebody | the case study, the case management, the case law, the case report |
| Antonyms | counterexample, exception | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'exemplary', which means perfect or model., Using 'example' in plural without 'examples' when talking about multiple cases., Mispronouncing it as 'egg-zample' instead of 'ig-zample'. | Confused with 'case' used alone without 'the'., Overusing in casual conversations instead of simpler phrases., Misunderstanding when to use it in technical contexts. |
| Usage notes | Use 'example' when illustrating a point or providing a representation. It's suitable in most contexts, but avoid in very casual situations where simpler words may be more appropriate. | Use 'the case' to refer to a specific situation or example. It's formal in legal contexts but can also be used informally. |
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Frequently asked questions: Example vs The case
What's the difference between Example and The case?
Example: A sample or model of something to show how it works. The case: A container or situation related to something.
Can you show an example of each?
Example: Please follow this example to complete your assignment. The case: This is the case we need to solve first.
Can I use Example and The case interchangeably?
Not always. Example and The case are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.