case

A particular situation, instance, or set of circumstances. It can also refer to a legal action or a specific occurrence under consideration. Furthermore, it may denote a container designed to hold or protect something, or in a more abstract sense, a theoretical scenario or argument presented for examination, which is a concept that doesn't always have a direct, single-word equivalent in some languages, requiring a descriptive phrase or context.

• In this case, we need to consider all the variables before making a decision. — This particular situation requires careful thought.
• The detective quickly took on the new case of the missing jewels. — A criminal investigation.
• Please put the documents back in their case after you've read them. — A container for documents.
• The lawyer presented a strong case for his client's innocence. — An argument or set of facts in a legal context.
• This theoretical case study illustrates a complex ethical dilemma, providing a framework for discussion. — An abstract or conceptual scenario.

To observe and examine a place, often a building, carefully and systematically, usually in preparation for a robbery or other crime.

• The burglars cased the house for a week before attempting the break-in. — They watched the house to plan a robbery.
• The security guards noticed a suspicious individual casing the bank. — Observing the bank's security in detail.

Pertaining to a specific instance or particular situation; not general. This adjective form is often used in compound terms.

• This is a case-specific solution, not a general one for all problems. — A solution tailored to a particular instance.
• We decided to handle each application on a case-by-case basis. — Each application considered individually.