THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
A textbook case
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
A clear, typical example of a particular situation or pattern.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- The mix-up was a textbook case of unclear responsibilities.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
The mix-up was ________ of unclear responsibilities.
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A textbook case — A clear, typical example of a particular situation or pattern.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “A textbook case” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
A clear, typical example of a particular situation or pattern.
Compare: The mix-up was a textbook case of unclear responsibilities.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it when an example illustrates a familiar principle especially clearly. It suits study, work and general discussion.
More examples in context
- Their careful response was a textbook case of good preparation paying off.
- The empty stalls and disappointed visitors formed a textbook case of poor event planning.
Usage note
A textbook case can be positive or negative. It does not have to appear in a real textbook, and textbook does not always mean excellent quality.
A short conversation
A: Why did the two teams both order the same supplies?
B: It is a textbook case of poor communication. Neither knew what the other was doing.
A: A shared checklist should help next time.
One more practice question
Which meaning fits “a textbook case of bad planning”?
A. A clear, typical example of bad planning.
B. A claim that the planning was excellent in every way.
Check your answer
A. Textbook means illustrative or typical; the example can show a mistake.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.