in worst case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'in worst case' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation or outcome that is the least desirable. For example: In worst case, the economic crisis could lead to a recession.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

In worst case this is only 2h of battery life.

University of California, Berkeley

His argument also seems somewhat ill-informed – or, in worst case, wilfully misleading.

The Guardian - Music

In worst case performance with respect to information it can be seen that windmill wing graphs approximate optimal structures.

Social Networks

For voters, it's also a case study in worst case scenario in terms of public policy making.

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, if every layer has m implementation options, only O m2) mappings within a given layer are required in worst case.

Stanford University

The network 3D-CGIN can tolerate a maximum of 6 faults in worst case, due to the additional link at initial stage.

Procedia Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

We are writing in worst-case language.

The New York Times

In worst-case scenarios, species are simply vanishing.

The Guardian

"It could be, in worst-case scenario, a suicide spike.

The Guardian

WRST — that is short for "worst," as in, "worst-case scenario".

The New York Times

Sparano often asks his players to run plays in worst-case situations.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in worst case", clearly define the specific scenario you are referencing to avoid ambiguity. For example, "In worst case, if the engine fails, the plane will glide to the nearest airport."

Common error

Avoid using "in worst case" and "at worst" interchangeably without considering the context. "In worst case" is typically used to introduce a specific negative scenario, while "at worst" is a more general expression indicating the most unfavorable outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in worst case" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by specifying the circumstances under which the main action or state is considered. Ludwig AI identifies this as a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in worst case" serves to highlight a potential, yet undesirable, outcome, functioning as an adverbial phrase modifying a statement by indicating the circumstances of an unfavorable result. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and acceptable for use. While it is not extremely common, its presence in diverse sources such as scientific journals, news outlets, and academic publications signals its versatility. "In worst case" is especially common in science related contexts, but is also present in news and media. When using "in worst case", clarity is crucial: ensure the specific negative scenario is well-defined to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the worst scenario

Replaces "case" with "scenario", emphasizing the hypothetical nature of the situation.

in a worst-case situation

Similar to "in the worst scenario", emphasizing the situation.

at worst

A shorter, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

in the extreme case

Emphasizes the extremity of the situation.

in the most unfavorable situation

Replaces "worst case" with a more descriptive phrase, increasing formality.

if the worst happens

Expresses the concept as a conditional statement.

should the worst come to pass

A more literary or formal way of saying "if the worst happens".

in the event of the worst-case outcome

More formal and emphasizes the outcome.

under the most adverse circumstances

Focuses on the circumstances leading to the negative outcome.

if everything goes wrong

A more informal and general way to describe a negative outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "in worst case" to introduce a potential scenario with the least desirable outcome. For example, "In worst case, we might lose funding." You can also consider alternatives like "at worst" or "in the worst scenario".

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

"In worst case" is a shorter, less formal way of saying "in the worst-case scenario". The latter is more explicit and often preferred in formal writing.

Is "in worst case scenario" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "in worst case scenario" can be considered slightly redundant, as "case" and "scenario" have similar meanings. "In worst case" or "in the worst scenario" are often better choices.

What can I say instead of "in worst case"?

You can use alternatives like "at worst", "in the worst scenario", or "if the worst happens" depending on the context.