special case
A 'special case' refers to an instance that deviates from the norm, often requiring unique treatment or consideration.
Definition
B2General
(common)An instance that deviates from the general rule or norm, requiring unique consideration.
Example
- This patient is a special case and needs a different treatment plan.
C1Mathematics and Logic
(technical, academic)A specific instance of a more general concept or theorem.
Example
- A square is a special case of a rectangle.
C1Programming
(technical)Handling a specific situation differently from the general rule to optimize performance or manage exceptions.
Example
- The function has a special case to handle zero as an input.
C2Legal
(formal, technical)A written statement of facts submitted to a court for a decision on a point of law.
Example
- The special case was submitted to the court for a ruling on the legal issue.
C1Idiomatic
(informal)A situation that is exceptional or unusual, often requiring special attention.
Example
- China is something of a special case due to its unique economic policies.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "special case":
corner casein casebase casehard casetest casecase upuse casemany such casescase the jointjust in casespecial snowflakespecial team