in any case
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- Making an additional point; anyway: Used to introduce a statement that adds to, supports, or contrasts with a previous point, often indicating a more important or decisive consideration.
- Regardless of other considerations; whatever else may be true or happen: Used to emphasize that a particular fact, action, or outcome is certain or will happen despite other circumstances.
Usage
The phrase "in any case" is used to transition between ideas, often to signal a concluding, summarizing, or overriding point. It can function similarly to "anyway," "anyhow," or "in any event."
Examples
- Adding a supporting or contrasting point:
- I don't want to go to a restaurant; it's too expensive. In any case, I already made dinner.
- She couldn't shelter behind him all the time, and in any case, he wasn't always with her.
- Emphasizing certainty regardless of situation:
- We should leave early. In any case, we must be there by noon.
- The plan might change, but we need to prepare in any case.
Advanced Usage
- "in any case" at the beginning of a sentence: Often used to introduce the main or final point in a discussion.
- The evidence is weak. In any case, the deadline has passed.
- "in any case" at the end of a sentence: Used to reinforce a statement made.
- We have to finish this report today, in any case.
Variants and Related Words
- Anyway (adv): Used in similar contexts to mean "in any case" or "regardless."
- It's too late to call, anyway.
- Anyhow (adv): Informal variant of "anyway" or "in any case."
- Anyhow, let's get back to the main topic.
- In any event (adv phrase): A more formal synonym for "in any case."
- In any event, the decision is final.
- At any rate (adv phrase): Used to introduce a statement that corrects, summarizes, or concludes.
- He was late, but at any rate, he arrived safely.
Synonyms
- Regardless: Without regard or consideration for something else.
- Nevertheless: In spite of that; however; all the same.
- Be that as it may: Even if that is the case; whether that is true or not.
Related Phrases
- In either case: Used when presenting two possibilities, meaning the following statement applies to both.
- We could go by train or car. In either case, it will take hours.
- Just in case: As a precaution; if it should happen that.
- Take an umbrella, just in case it rains.
Notes on Usage
"In any case" is a transitional phrase. It is commonly used in both spoken and written English to structure arguments, change topics, or emphasize a key point that holds true under all circumstances previously discussed.
Adverb
- making an additional point; anyway; besides, we can't afford it"
- I don't want to go to a restaurant
- she couldn't shelter behind him all the time and in any case he wasn't always with her
- used to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement; anyhow, they're quiet"; anyway, it's gone"; in any case, there was a brief scuffle"
- Anyhow, he is dead now
- I think they're asleep
- I don't know what happened to it
- anyway, there is another factor to consider
- I don't know how it started
- in any event, the government faced a serious protest
- but at any rate he got a knighthood for it