English Lexicon

Open-and-Shut Case

/ˈoʊ.pən ənd ʃʌt keɪs/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A situation or case that is clear and straightforward, requiring little or no further investigation.

    "The evidence was so compelling that it was considered an open-and-shut case."
  2. 2

    A legal case that is easily resolved due to clear evidence or facts.

    "The prosecutor described the incident as an open-and-shut case, given the eyewitness testimonies."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The phrase 'open-and-shut case' originated in the legal context, referring to a case that is straightforward and requires little deliberation. The term combines 'open' and 'shut' to imply that the matter is clear-cut, with roots in English legal jargon from the late 19th century.

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