Spoken English phrase

What does “in that case” mean?

"In that case" means "if that is true" or "because of what you just said". We use it to connect new information to a decision, comment, suggestion, or next question.

Practise it in “At the supermarket checkout”

When people say it

Change your plan: "You already booked it? In that case, I won't reserve another one."
Give advice from the new situation: "You may need proof. In that case, keep the receipt."
Make a judgment: "It has to travel a long way? In that case, these biscuits are better."
Ask the next practical question: "You're hosting? In that case, what time should I come?"

Tone: Neutral and natural in speech and writing; it can sound calm and slightly logical, like "okay, given that..."

Careful: Do not read it too literally as a physical "case" or replace it with "in this situation" every time. For this meaning, "in that case" is the natural fixed phrase after someone gives new information.

In 7 of Lin's scenes

Real lines from the scenes. Open one to watch it and say it yourself.

Fair enough. In that case, I'd keep the receipt—you may need evidence.At the supermarket checkout · Advanced

In that case, I'm interested—and mildly impressed by the confidence.Asking someone on a date · Advanced

In that case, these biscuits travel well, and the tea looks fancier than it is.Shopping at duty-free · Advanced

In that case, a sheer pink is forgiving. It survives tiny disasters.Getting a gel manicure · Advanced

In that case, Mabel's your match—she already acts like she's collecting rent.Adopting a cat · Advanced

In that case, I'm definitely coming hungry and maybe bringing moral support.Making dinner plans · Advanced

In that case, what time should I show up, and what can I bring?Inviting friends to a party · Advanced

Shadow

Line by line

LinFair enough. In that case, I'd keep the receipt—you may need evidence.
LinIn that case, I'm interested—and mildly impressed by the confidence.
LinIn that case, these biscuits travel well, and the tea looks fancier than it is.

Other ways to say it

if so

Shorter and tighter. Often used before a quick next step: "If so, let me know."

then

Very common and casual: "Then I'll come early." It is less explicit than "in that case."

in that event

More formal and a little less common: "In that event, we should cancel."

Quick answers

Is "in that case" the same as "then"?

Sometimes, yes. But "in that case" more clearly shows that your next sentence comes from the other person's new information.

Can I use "in that case" at the start of a question?

Yes. It is very natural: "In that case, what time should I come?" It often introduces the next practical question.

More phrases

in mind right away that's fair that works / it works nice to meet you pretty good a couple of feel like…feel better get there All phrases →