“Case and Point” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 17, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The idiomatic phrase “case and point” is not often seen in writing or heard in conversation. When you encounter it, know that it is a misspelling of “case in point.” This reference provides the correct meaning of “case in point,” gives examples of how to use it properly, and alternative ways to say “case in point” while still retaining its meaning.

Case And Point Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Case and point” is a common misspelling of the correct phrase, which is “case in point.” The phrase “case in point” means an example that clearly illustrates or supports the point being made. It’s often used when providing evidence or a specific instance that backs up an argument or statement.
Case and Point Meaning
Case and Point Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Case And Point Meaning

“Case and point” is a misspelling of the correct phrase “case in point.” “Case and point” is incorrect and is often mistakenly used in place of “case in point.”

The phrase “case in point“ means an example that supports or illustrates a point or argument. It’s used to provide evidence or clarification for something previously mentioned, showing a relevant case that proves the point being made.

  1. “Social media can spread misinformation quickly. Case in point: the viral rumor that turned out to be false.”
  2. “Good communication is key in teamwork. Case in point: our last successful project where we all collaborated effectively.”

In each example, “case in point” introduces a specific example to strengthen the argument.

Origin of this Term

The phrase “case in point” and, by default, its misspelling “case and point,” is derived from the once shorter phrase “in point.” In French, the word pointe means a point in relevance to a situation at hand. The phrase was lengthened to “case in point” in 1647 and has been used this way ever since.

Usage of “Case in Point”

Here’s how you would use “case in point”:

  1. To provide an example: “Many people are cautious about online shopping. Case in point, my friend had her credit card information stolen last week.”
  2. Supporting an argument: “Technology is changing rapidly—case in point, just look at how smartphones have evolved in the last five years.”
  3. Illustrating a statement: “He’s always on time. Case in point, he arrived ten minutes early today.”

Related Terms to “Case in Point”

  • For example – Used to introduce an instance that supports or illustrates a point.
  • Such as – Indicates specific examples of something mentioned.
  • To illustrate – Used to introduce an example that clarifies a point.
  • For instance – A synonym for “for example,” providing a specific case or scenario.
  • Exhibit A – Refers to the first piece of evidence or an important example in support of an argument.
  • In support of this – Used to introduce evidence that strengthens a point.
  • A perfect example – Refers to a case that perfectly exemplifies the point being made.
  • As evidenced by – Used to refer to something that proves or supports a statement.
  • An illustration of this – Introduces an example that explains or clarifies the idea.
  • This demonstrates – Used to show how an example or case supports a point.

Other Ways to Say “Case And (In) Point”

There are many ways to say “case and (in) point.” Some other ways you can say this and still convey the same meaning include:

  • For example
  • For instance
  • Allow me to illustrate
  • Good illustration
  • Example of this

“Case in Point” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made by a celebrity to an entertainment magazine during an interview.

  • “I believe my career has taken off and my acting has gotten better. Case in point: compare my most recent film to the first commercial I did as a child.”

A statement made by a politician about enacting new laws.

  • “We need to enact a law that will protect homeowners from going to jail for shooting an intruder in their home. Case in point: A young man just went to jail for protecting his family from an intruder and this should not be happening.”

Examples in Conversations

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I think men with muscles are overrated.
  • Friend 2: Really? I love a guy who is in shape and not afraid to show it.
  • Friend 1: Muscles just look gross to me.
  • Friend 2: Really? You think muscles are gross. Case in point: Dwayne Johnson.
  • Friend 1: Okay. He isn’t bad for a guy with muscles.

A conversation between two students.

  • Student 1: I don’t think we should have homework on the weekends.
  • Student 2: Why not?
  • Student 1: Because I have way too much to do on the weekends. Case in point: this weekend I have to mow the lawn, weed the yard, clean my room and get it all done before my date.
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