in ogni caso
Lemma: in ogni caso
Translation: in any case; anyway; anyhow; at any rate; nevertheless (adverbial phrase)
Etymology: This Italian adverbial phrase is composed of three elements: 'in' (in), 'ogni' (every, each), and 'caso' (case, instance). 'Ogni' derives from Latin 'omnis' (all, every), while 'caso' comes from Latin 'casus' (event, occurrence, chance). The phrase literally means 'in every case' but functions similarly to the English 'in any case' to indicate that something applies regardless of circumstances.
Example Usage
In ogni caso, dobbiamo finire il progetto entro venerdì.
In any case, we need to finish the project by Friday.
Non so se verrà alla festa, ma in ogni caso prepareremo abbastanza cibo.
I don't know if he'll come to the party, but in any case we'll prepare enough food.
In ogni caso, ti ringrazio per l'aiuto.
Anyway, thank you for your help.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ogni' as 'any' and 'caso' as 'case' - so 'in ogni caso' is literally 'in any case'
- Remember that 'ogni' means 'every/each' - so this phrase means 'in every case' which is similar to the English 'in any case'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is widely used in Italian conversation and writing to indicate that something applies regardless of circumstances. It's a common transitional phrase in both formal and informal contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'in ogni caso' means 'in any case' or 'anyway' (referring to all possible scenarios), 'in questo caso' means 'in this case' (referring to a specific scenario).
Notes: The difference is similar to the English distinction between 'in any case' (general) and 'in this case' (specific).
Mnemonic: 'Ogni' means 'every/any' while 'questo' means 'this' - so 'in ogni caso' is general, while 'in questo caso' is specific.