a basket case

USAGE SUMMARY

"a basket case" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe someone or something that is completely overwhelmed or incapable of functioning properly. Here are two examples of how it can be used in a sentence: 1. After working 80 hours this week, John was a complete basket case by Friday afternoon. 2. The company's financial troubles have turned it into a basket case, with employees fearing for their jobs and the future of the company.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Today, Smela is a basket case.

The Economist

But emotionally he was "a basket case".

The Economist

He was a basket case.

The New Yorker

I was a basket case".

The New York Times - Magazine

"At sixty, I'll be a basket case".

The New Yorker

"I was a basket case," she said.

The New York Times

Africa should be breadbasket, not a basket case.

The New York Times

But RM is far from a basket case.

The Guardian - Business

Vietnam is by no means a basket case.

The Guardian

"I was a basket case, and Paul calmed me down".

The New York Times

I really was sort of a basket case".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase “a basket case” when you want to convey a strong sense of something or someone being in a terrible state, either emotionally or functionally. However, be mindful of the context and audience, as it can be perceived as insensitive.

Common error

While "a basket case" is widely understood, avoid using it in formal or professional documents where a more objective and less colloquial term would be more appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "the project was a basket case", consider using "the project was severely mismanaged" or "the project was in a state of critical disrepair".

Linguistic Context

A basket case functions as a noun phrase that serves as a predicate nominative or object complement. Ludwig indicates this phrase is used to describe a person, place, or thing in a state of disrepair or dysfunction. Examples show its use in describing emotional states, failing organizations, and struggling economies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “a basket case” is an idiomatic phrase used to describe something or someone in a severely compromised or dysfunctional state. Ludwig AI confirms it is a correct and usable phrase. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts and can be used to describe emotional states, failing businesses, or struggling economies. While generally understood, it’s important to consider the formality of the situation and opt for more neutral language in professional settings. Alternatives include “completely overwhelmed” or “in a state of collapse” depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete wreck

Implies a state of ruin or devastation, often used for emotional states.

falling apart

Suggests a gradual disintegration or breakdown, both physically and emotionally.

completely overwhelmed

Highlights the feeling of being unable to cope with a situation or task.

on the verge of a breakdown

Indicates that someone is close to experiencing a mental or emotional collapse.

totally dysfunctional

Emphasizes the inability to function normally or effectively.

in a state of collapse

Focuses on the idea of something failing or breaking down completely, often physically or structurally.

emotionally shattered

Specifically refers to a state of extreme emotional distress or trauma.

a hopeless case

Indicates a situation or person with little or no chance of improvement or recovery.

in a shambles

Describes a state of disorder or chaos, often referring to organizations or systems.

beyond repair

Suggests that something is damaged beyond the possibility of restoration.

FAQs

How can I use "a basket case" in a sentence?

You can use "a basket case" to describe a person, organization, or situation that is completely ineffective or overwhelmed. For example: "After the merger, the company became "a basket case"".

What's an alternative to saying someone is "a basket case"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "completely overwhelmed", "totally dysfunctional", or "falling apart".

Is it appropriate to use the term "a basket case" in professional settings?

While the term is widely understood, it's generally best to avoid using "a basket case" in formal or professional settings. Opt for more neutral and objective language to maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean when a country or economy is described as "a basket case"?

When a country or economy is described as "a basket case", it means it's in a state of severe economic or political dysfunction, often with little hope of immediate improvement. In such cases, you could also say the country is "in a state of collapse".