嵌入式案例研究适用于分析涉及多层次现象中“为什么”和“怎么样”的管理问题，但现有文献尚缺乏对该研究方法的充分阐释。通过对发表于国际顶级期刊的22篇相关文献进行回顾，分析了嵌入式案例研究的应用现状，从分析单位角度出发明确了嵌入式案例研究的内涵与特点，探讨了该研究方法适用的研究类型。最后，对于如何更好地开展嵌入式案例研究提出了建议，以期促进对该研究方法的深入理解及应用。

Embedded case study is suitable to analyze the “why” and “how” management questions involving multilevel phenomenon, but it is lack of illustration about this approach in the extant literature. Through reviewing 22 papers published in top international management journals, we analyze the status about the application of embedded case study. The connotation and characteristics of embedded case study is induced based on the perspective of the analysis unit, as well as the research types. Finally, it is suggested that how to use the embedded case study better, which will help us better understand and apply it.