What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sleeve
Example
She rolled up her sleeves and got to work. [sleeves: plural noun]
Example
I bought a vinyl record with a cool sleeve design. [sleeve: noun]
Example
I always keep my laptop in a protective sleeve when I travel. [sleeve: noun]
case
Example
I need to buy a new case for my phone since the old one broke. [case: noun]
Example
In case of rain, we should bring umbrellas. [case: preposition]
Example
The detective solved the case after months of investigation. [case: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Case is more commonly used than sleeve in everyday language. Case is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while sleeve is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sleeve and case?
While case can be used in both formal and informal contexts, sleeve is often associated with a casual or informal tone and is less commonly used in formal settings.