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Open-and-shut case

🇬🇧 UK //ˌəʊ.pən.ən.ʃʌt ˈkeɪs// 🇺🇸 US //ˌoʊ.pən.ən.ʃʌt ˈkeɪs//

Meaning of Open-and-shut case

A situation where the outcome is obvious and requires little debate.

In simple words: A situation that is clear and easy to decide.

Open-and-shut case in a sentence

• The evidence made it an open-and-shut case, leaving no room for doubt.
• In the trial, the prosecutor argued it was clearly an open-and-shut case.
• This problem is not an open-and-shut case; it needs further discussion.

How to use Open-and-shut case

Use this phrase when something is obviously true or easy to understand. It's more formal and often used in legal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a door that opens and closes easily — clear and simple.

Related words

Collocations with Open-and-shut case

• consider it an open-and-shut case
• an open-and-shut argument
• make it an open-and-shut case

Synonyms for Open-and-shut case

• clear-cut case
• simple issue
• straightforward matter
• obvious case

Opposites of Open-and-shut case

• complex case
• difficult situation

Common mistakes with Open-and-shut case

• Using it in informal conversations where simpler terms would suffice.
• Confusing it with 'open case' which means unresolved.
• Misusing it to describe complex situations.

Frequently asked questions about Open-and-shut case

What does Open-and-shut case mean?

A situation that is clear and easy to decide.

What is the definition of Open-and-shut case?

A situation where the outcome is obvious and requires little debate.

How do you use Open-and-shut case in a sentence?

The evidence made it an open-and-shut case, leaving no room for doubt.

Can you give another example of Open-and-shut case?

In the trial, the prosecutor argued it was clearly an open-and-shut case.

What are synonyms for Open-and-shut case?

Common alternatives include clear-cut case, simple issue, straightforward matter, obvious case.

What is the opposite of Open-and-shut case?

Opposite meanings include complex case, difficult situation.

What words go with Open-and-shut case?

It commonly pairs with consider it an open-and-shut case, an open-and-shut argument, make it an open-and-shut case.

What are common mistakes when using Open-and-shut case?

Using it in informal conversations where simpler terms would suffice. Confusing it with 'open case' which means unresolved. Misusing it to describe complex situations.

How do you pronounce Open-and-shut case?

US: //ˌoʊ.pən.ən.ʃʌt ˈkeɪs//, UK: //ˌəʊ.pən.ən.ʃʌt ˈkeɪs//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Open-and-shut case?

Use this phrase when something is obviously true or easy to understand. It's more formal and often used in legal contexts.