worst-case situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worst-case situation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the most unfavorable or adverse outcome of a particular scenario or event. Example: "In a worst-case situation, we may have to evacuate the entire area if the storm intensifies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mr. Wilbur's story may be a worst-case situation.

The New York Times

That worst-case situation did not come to pass.

The New York Times

That worst-case situation now looks wildly optimistic.

The New York Times

In such a worst-case situation, the recession could become even worse.

The New York Times

In a worst-case situation, Italy might possibly be even forced to abandon the euro.

The New York Times

Other than the victory, the game might have been the worst-case situation for the Broncos.

The New York Times - Sports

The worst-case situation has not come to pass in Libya itself.

The New York Times

In the worst-case situation, sparking could ignite fuel vapors and destroy a plane.

The New York Times

The term often refers to a worst-case situation rather than a likelihood.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

SnoWhere can help other users find you in the event you are lost, injured or — worst case situation — taken out by an avalanche.

The New York Times

But the "worst case" situation, which occurs when you don't cover the shortage within a certain period of time and incur extended overdraft fees, is very different: $1,015 in Arkansas, versus $1,420 in Massachusetts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "worst-case situation", clearly define the parameters and assumptions that lead to this outcome to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the factors that contribute to the severity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "worst-case situation" repeatedly in a single document. Vary your language by using synonyms like "most unfavorable circumstances" or "bleakest outlook" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worst-case situation" functions as a noun phrase that describes a scenario representing the most unfavorable or adverse outcome. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "worst-case situation" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the most unfavorable outcome of a particular scenario. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various domains, including news, media, and scientific publications. While "worst-case scenario" is a close synonym, it often refers to a hypothetical sequence of events, whereas "worst-case situation" focuses on existing circumstances. For clarity, it's important to define the assumptions leading to this outcome and avoid overuse by varying language with alternatives like "most unfavorable circumstances" or "bleakest outlook".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worst-case scenario

Replaces "situation" with "scenario", implying a hypothetical sequence of events leading to the most negative outcome.

worst possible outcome

Focuses on the result rather than the context, emphasizing the most negative potential result.

most unfavorable circumstances

Highlights the surrounding conditions contributing to the negative outcome.

direst circumstances

Uses stronger language to convey the severity of the circumstances.

catastrophic eventuality

Emphasizes the potential for a disastrous event to occur.

bleakest outlook

Focuses on the pessimistic view of the future.

most adverse conditions

Highlights the challenging and negative conditions.

ultimate crisis

Emphasizes the culmination of negative events into a critical point.

absolute disaster

Highlights the complete failure or ruin of a situation.

downside risk

Focuses on the potential for loss or negative consequences, often used in a business or financial context.

FAQs

What is another way to say "worst-case situation"?

Alternatives include "worst-case scenario", "most unfavorable circumstances", or "direst circumstances", depending on the specific context.

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

Example: "In a "worst-case situation", the company might face bankruptcy if sales continue to decline."

Is "worst-case situation" formal or informal?

"Worst-case situation" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "most adverse conditions" may be preferred in some professional settings.

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

While very similar, "worst-case situation" refers to the existing set of circumstances, while "worst-case scenario" often describes a hypothetical sequence of events that could lead to the most negative outcome.