test case

noun

1
: a representative case whose outcome is likely to serve as a precedent
2
: a proceeding brought by agreement or on an understanding of the parties to obtain a decision as to the constitutionality of a statute

Examples of test case in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The challenge also serves as a test case that could give lawmakers insight into whether expanding the broad exemption to other vaccinations could fly legally. Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2025 In Florida, a special election for the state’s 6th Congressional District is emerging as the latest test case for Democrats seeking to make inroads in Trump country. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 26 Mar. 2025 The inquiry into Meta was being watched closely as a test case for the agency’s expansion into regulating tech companies whose businesses intersect with financial services. Jake Pearson, ProPublica, 26 Mar. 2025 Max/Fifth Season’s Tokyo Vice, which filmed two seasons in Japan from 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, served as a test case for the incentive, which was officially launched in late 2023. Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for test case

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of test case was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Test case.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/test%20case. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Legal Definition

test case

see case sense 1a

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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