Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

open-and-shut-case

idiom
/ˈoʊ.pən ənd ʃʌt keɪs/
Definition
A situation or legal case that is simple and clear, requiring little debate or discussion.
Examples
  • “The evidence was overwhelming; it was clearly an open-and-shut case.”
  • “The judge ruled swiftly, noting that it was an open-and-shut case from the start.”
Meaning
An open-and-shut case implies that the facts are so obvious that there is no need for further examination.
Synonyms
  • clear-cut case
  • no-brainer
  • slam dunk