test case

NOUN

representative occurrence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

precedent

WEAK

acid test crucial test experiment first case first occurrence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Few experts believed the test case would succeed.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

The 2016 referendum was viewed as a national test case after census data showed around a quarter of local properties were second homes.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

With hundreds of cases before the court, she zeroed in on one test case to govern them all.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

The closely watched test case could rewrite the rules of engagement for social companies and their youngest users — and leave tech titans on the hook for billions in damages.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 9, 2026

The perfect test case, the perfect way to set precedent—not with someone who was malicious, not with a societal outlier.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel