use case

American  

[yoos keys] / ˈyus ˌkeɪs /

noun

1. a scenario in which something is or may be useful; a particular situation in which something, especially a technology, is tested or employed.

   The pharmaceutical database offers filters for a variety of use cases, such as prescribing, pricing, and dispensing medication.

   The new feature works, but we would anticipate better performance in a real-world use case.

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Etymology

Origin of use case

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

"This use case illustrates how closely progress in high-performance computing and quantum research are intertwined today."

From Science Daily • May 11, 2026

The paper highlights a specific use case for Shor’s algorithm called an “on-spend attack.”

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

It just comes down to your use case and perhaps budget.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Piloting an AI use case, understood as running a small-scale test, used to curry favor with investors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

“Affirm underwrites every application and we only approve people for what we believe they can responsibly afford to repay as Affirm never charges any late or hidden fees. We’re approaching this use case thoughtfully.”

From MarketWatch • Feb. 13, 2026