“Case In Point” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 18, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The phrase “case in point” is a common phrase you might hear during an everyday conversation or possibly see in writing. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and the story behind its origin. You will also find examples of conversations/statements so you can see how the phrase is used properly in conversation, followed by some other ways you could say the phrase and convey the same thought.

“Case In Point” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “case in point” is used to introduce an example that illustrates or supports a particular argument or point being made. It serves to provide evidence or a specific instance that reinforces the statement or claim being discussed.
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“Case In Point” Meaning

The phrase “case in point” is used to refer to a specific example that illustrates or supports a broader argument or point being made. It highlights a particular instance that serves as evidence for a claim or assertion.

Examples:

  • “Many students struggle with time management; a case in point is Sarah, who frequently misses deadlines.”
  • “The rise in renewable energy usage is a positive trend. A case in point is the increasing number of solar panel installations across the country.”

Origin of This Idiom

This popular phrase was derived from a shorter phrase that was used many years ago. Derived from the French phrase a pointe, meaning relevant, the shorter form of the phrase “case in point” was simply “in point.” The phrase “in point” first appeared in 1658 and it was not sometime until the 1700s that the word case was added to the phrase to become “case in point.”

Usage of “Case In Point”

  • In a discussion about a topic:

“Some people believe that technology can lead to social isolation; a case in point is how many teens prefer texting over face-to-face conversations.”

  • During a presentation:

“Our recent survey showed a significant drop in customer satisfaction. A case in point is the feedback we received about our new product line.”

  • Talking about historical events:

“The impact of climate change is evident worldwide; case in point, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.”

  • In a conversation about personal experiences:

“I’ve learned that rushing into decisions can lead to mistakes. A case in point is when I bought a car without researching, only to find out it had many issues.”

Related Terms to “Case In Point”

  • For example – a phrase used to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a point.
  • Illustration – a specific example or instance that clarifies or supports a concept.
  • Point of reference – an example or standard used for comparison or support in discussions.
  • To illustrate – a phrase used to indicate that an example will be provided to clarify a point.
  • Example cited – referring to a specific instance that has been mentioned to support an argument.
  • Quintessential example – a typical or perfect example that represents a particular category or idea.
  • Specimen – an example used to represent a broader category or concept.
  • Exemplar – a model or example worthy of imitation that supports an argument.
  • Test case – an example used to test a theory or demonstrate a principle.
  • Supporting evidence – information or examples used to reinforce or back up a claim.

Other Ways to Say “Case In Point”

There are numerous ways you can say “case in point” and still convey the same meaning. Other phrases you could use instead include for instance, for example or consider (insert name or thing here you want the person to consider).

Useful synonyms of “Case In Point”:

  • Prime example
  • Good example
  • Example
  • Good illustration
  • Example of this
  • For example
  • Great example
  • Good one

“Case In Point” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made in an entertainment magazine about a well-known actor.

  • “Robin Williams made every movie he starred in better. Case in point: Mrs. Doubtfire and Aladdin.”

A statement made by a radio host about a band.

  • “It is difficult to cover and song and make everyone love it as much as the original, but some bands can do it successfully. Case in point: The Sound of Silence by Disturbed.”

Examples in Conversation

A conversation between two friends working out at the gym.

  • Friend 1: I am a firm believer that muscles do not make the man.
  • Friend 2: Really? I think a man in good shape with muscles is highly attractive. Case in point: Jason Mamoa.
  • Friend 1: To each their own, but I am still not convinced.

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I don’t think professional wrestlers should ever be actors.
  • Friend 2: I don’t know. Some of them are good.
  • Friend 1: Like who?
  • Friend 2: Well, a good case in point would be The Rock, aka Dwayne Johnson. He has made some pretty great movies.
  • Friend 1: That is true. I can’t argue with that one. He is such a good actor, I forgot he was a wrestler.

Other examples:

  • Dash Riprock was an excellent and typical case in point.
  • The key settlement policies are a case in point.
  • Many professions feel they deserve higher pay, and nurses are a case in point.
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