worst-case scenario

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worst-case scenario" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the most unfavorable or dire outcome that could occur in a given situation. Example: "In a worst-case scenario, we may have to cancel the event if the weather does not improve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's the worst-case scenario?

The New York Times - Magazine

Worst-case scenario: Sandusky is charged.

The New York Times

"We're not talking worst-case scenario.

The New York Times

"Worst-case scenario, they arrest people.

The New York Times - Arts

What is our worst-case scenario?

The New York Times

What is the worst-case scenario?

The New Yorker

The worst-case scenario might be unpleasant.

The New York Times

The worst-case scenario rarely happens.

Independent

"Worst-case scenario, we have a polygraph".

The New Yorker

What is the worst-case scenario here?

The New York Times

That's obviously a worst-case scenario.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "worst-case scenario" when you want to emphasize the most negative potential outcome of a situation, especially in planning or risk assessment contexts. For example, in project management, identifying the "worst-case scenario" helps in creating contingency plans.

Common error

Avoid using "worst-case scenario" to describe extremely improbable events. Focus on realistic, though negative, possibilities. Overstating the negativity can undermine the credibility of your assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worst-case scenario" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI shows, it identifies a situation representing the most unfavorable outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "worst-case scenario" is a commonly used noun phrase to denote the most negative potential outcome of a situation. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts, including news, business, and science. The analysis reveals that the phrase is primarily used to identify and emphasize potential risks, prompting proactive planning and mitigation strategies. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a realistic but negative possibility, rather than an improbable event. Consider similar terms like "worst possible outcome" or "nightmare scenario" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worst possible outcome

Emphasizes the negativity of the result.

the absolute worst that could happen

Highlights the extreme degree of the potential negative event.

the least favorable outcome

Focuses on the undesirability of the result.

the most pessimistic outlook

Focuses on the negative perspective or expectation.

the downside risk

Highlights the potential for loss or negative consequences.

nightmare scenario

Uses a more evocative term to describe a very bad situation.

the bleakest possibility

Stresses the lack of hope in the situation.

the worst that can be envisioned

Emphasizes the imaginative aspect of contemplating negative outcomes.

doomsday prediction

Implies a catastrophic event.

the direst circumstances

Implies severe and urgent negative conditions.

FAQs

How do you use "worst-case scenario" in a sentence?

You can use "worst-case scenario" to describe the most negative potential outcome of a situation. For example: "The "worst-case scenario" is that the project will be delayed by six months."

What's a good alternative to "worst-case scenario"?

Alternatives include "worst possible outcome", "nightmare scenario", or "least favorable outcome", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to consider the "worst-case scenario"?

While not always necessary, considering the "worst-case scenario" is crucial in situations involving risk assessment, planning, and decision-making, as it helps in preparing for potential negative consequences and developing mitigation strategies.

What is the difference between "worst-case scenario" and "risk assessment"?

"Risk assessment" is a broader term that encompasses identifying, analyzing, and evaluating risks, while the "worst-case scenario" specifically refers to the most negative potential outcome identified within that assessment. Therefore, "worst-case scenario" is a component of "risk assessment".