In the worst-case scenario

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In the worst-case scenario" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the most unfavorable outcome that could occur in a given situation. Example: "In the worst-case scenario, we may have to delay the project by several months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

In the worst-case scenario, ministers stop trying, analysts say.

The New York Times

In the worst-case scenario, it could also dampen the nation's recent appreciation of diversity.

The New York Times

In the worst-case scenario, something really horrible will happen and the entire company will fail.

The Guardian

In the worst-case scenario, you can just publish it yourself.

The New Yorker

In the worst-case scenario, he will undergo off-season surgery.

The New York Times - Sports

"In the worst-case scenario, I knew I could be fired," she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

A spokesman said that in the "worst case scenario" 6,000 properties could be flooded.

The Guardian

In the worst case scenario, officials admit, a messy clannish scramble for power could ensue.

The Guardian

In the worst case scenario up to 50 million people would have had to be evacuated.

The Guardian

In the worst case scenario, firms may take your money and do nothing.

The New York Times

In the worst case scenario Iraq; in the best, the liberation and education of women who desperately need it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in the worst-case scenario", ensure that you clearly define what the worst-case outcome entails. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid relying on "in the worst-case scenario" too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using alternative phrases like "at worst" or "if everything goes wrong" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the worst-case scenario" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by specifying the conditions under which a certain outcome might occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the worst-case scenario" is a commonly used adverbial phrase to introduce and consider potential negative outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English writing. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When using the phrase, remember to clearly define the specific negative outcome being discussed. While appropriate for most situations, vary your language with alternatives such as "at worst" or "if everything goes wrong" to avoid repetition. The phrase serves to highlight potential risks, often leading to discussions of mitigation strategies. Be mindful of not overusing it in your writing. In conclusion, "in the worst-case scenario" is a valuable tool for discussing possible negative outcomes, but should be used judiciously and with clear context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at worst

This is a more concise way of indicating the most negative outcome, differing in length and directness.

worst comes to worst

This is a shorter, idiomatic expression with the same general meaning, but it's less formal and specific.

in the most unfavorable outcome

Replaces "worst-case scenario" with more formal synonyms, changing the tone and formality of the expression.

the worst that could happen

This focuses on the potential outcome, but is more direct and less scenario-based than the original phrase.

if the absolute worst happens

This phrase is more emphatic and dramatic, emphasizing the severity of the potential negative outcome using figurative language.

if everything goes wrong

This is a simpler, more direct way of expressing a similar concept, differing in tone and complexity.

in the direst circumstances

This alternative emphasizes the severity and negativity of the situation using a more descriptive and dramatic tone.

should the worst come to pass

This is a more formal and somewhat archaic way of expressing the idea, using figurative language.

if the unthinkable occurs

It introduces an element of surprise or disbelief about the negative possibility and it is a bit more dramatic.

in a doomsday situation

This is more figurative and extreme, implying catastrophic consequences that are unlikely to happen in most cases, so it's more emphatic.

FAQs

How can I use "in the worst-case scenario" in a sentence?

You can use "in the worst-case scenario" to introduce a possible negative outcome. For example, "In the worst-case scenario, the project may be delayed by several weeks."

What can I say instead of "in the worst-case scenario"?

You can use alternatives like "at worst", "if everything goes wrong", or "should the worst come to pass depending on the context.

Is "in the worst-case scenario" formal or informal?

"In the worst-case scenario" is generally considered neutral to formal. While widely understood, alternatives like "at worst" might be more appropriate for very informal contexts.

What's the difference between "in the worst-case scenario" and "the worst that could happen"?

"In the worst-case scenario" presents a specific, considered outcome, while "the worst that could happen" ("the worst that could happen") is more general. The former implies some level of planning or consideration, while the latter is a broader statement of potential negativity.