Worst case scenario meaning in English

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Definition

the worst case scenario: the worst thing that can happen idiom

The worst case scenario is that they miss their plane. That's the worst thing that could happen to them.

Exercise 1

Stephen asks Bob for his case number.

Select the sentences below which use the term "case" correctly.

There may be more than 1!

I'm sorry Madam, but this bull has a severe case of mad cow disease.

The worst case scenario is that you come to the Christmas party without a nice gift.

It seems we've finally solved the case of the missing underwear.

I've been in a case of rush all week, and that's why I didn't return your phone call yesterday.

Stephen asks Bob for his case number.

Select the sentences below which use the term "case" correctly.

There may be more than 1!

I'm sorry Madam, but this bull has a severe case of mad cow disease.

A "case" is frequently used in a medical context, doctors often refer to the "cases" of their patients, and conditions, diseases and sicknesses are referred to as "cases". For example: Your son has a case of amnesia, or a slight case of the flu. "A case of mad cow disease".

The worst case scenario is that you come to the Christmas party without a nice gift.

This is a legitimate use of the term "case". The idiom "the worst case scenario" refers to a potential situation or scenario in which the worst possible circumstances are imagined or anticipated.

It seems we've finally solved the case of the missing underwear.

A "case" is frequently used in a legal or law enforcement context. Sherlock Holmes was famous for "solving" or "cracking" cases, which refers to mysteries or police investigations.

I've been in a case of rush all week, and that's why I didn't return your phone call yesterday.

This is the only sentence which uses "case" incorrectly. A "case" cannot be used in this sense. We would simply say: "I've been in a rush all week".

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