worst-case scenario
worst-case scenario — noun
- worst-case scenariosingular
- worst-case scenariosplural
1. the result you would least want if a plan, risk, or event went badly
the result you would least want if a plan, risk, or event went badly
The worst-case scenario is that the bridge closes for six months.
the worst-case scenario is that + clause
Engineers prepared for a worst-case scenario during the flood season.
prepare for a worst-case scenario
In a worst-case scenario, the company would lose its main supplier.
The safety plan explains the worst-case scenario for each chemical leak.
- worst outcome
plainer and less formal
- most serious possibility
clear explanation when the phrase may be unfamiliar
- best-case scenario
the most favorable possible result
文法句型
the worst-case scenario
in a worst-case scenario
plan for the worst-case scenario
用法筆記
Often used in planning, risk assessment, insurance, safety, and business discussions. It names the most negative realistic outcome, not every possible bad result.
常見錯誤
Incorrect: 'Worst-case scenario will happen certainly.' Correct: 'In the worst-case scenario, the order will arrive late.' The phrase describes a possible bad outcome, not a confirmed fact.