Definition

1. Adjective:
   • So obvious as to be easily solved or decided: Describes a situation, problem, or case that is extremely clear and straightforward, leaving no room for doubt or requiring little investigation.

Usage

• The adjective "open-and-shut" is almost exclusively used attributively, meaning it comes before a noun to describe it. It is most commonly used with nouns like "case," "decision," or "matter."
• It implies that the conclusion is immediately apparent from the basic facts.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The evidence was overwhelming, making it an open-and-shut case for the prosecution.
  • With his confession on video, the investigation became an open-and-shut matter.
  • This is not an open-and-shut decision; we need to consider all the ethical implications.

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a legal connotation but can be applied to any situation where the outcome is indisputably clear.
• It can sometimes be used ironically or sarcastically to suggest a situation is being presented as simple when it is actually more complex.

Variants and Related Words

• Clear-cut (adj): sharply defined; easy to perceive or understand. (e.g., a victory).
• Straightforward (adj): uncomplicated and easy to do or understand. (e.g., a procedure).
• Foregone conclusion (noun phrase): a result that can be predicted with certainty.

Synonyms

• Obvious
• Unambiguous
• Indisputable
• Self-evident

Antonyms

• Ambiguous
• Debatable
• Uncertain
• Problematic

Idioms and Phrases

• An open-and-shut case: This is the most common and fixed phrase using this adjective. It describes a legal case or any argument where the truth or result is blatantly obvious.
  • The detective said the burglary was an open-and-shut case once they found the fingerprints.

Adjective

1. so obvious as to be easily solved or decided
   • an open-and-shut case