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best-case

American

[best-keys] / ˈbɛstˌkeɪs /

adjective

being the best result that could be expected under the circumstances.

The best-case scenario shows her winning the nomination easily.

Etymology

Origin of best-case

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The best-case scenario is, in a way, just as disturbing.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

Even in a best-case scenario, Martin predicts oil prices won’t dip below $80 per barrel until the fourth quarter of the year.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

Any best-case scenario for USC this month presumably would involve a true star turn for Davidson, who already has proven to be a bona fide playmaker as a freshman.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2026

A lot more machinery needs to enter Gaza to meet UNDP’s best-case scenario.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 9, 2025

“Of late, I’ve heard a great many worst-case scenarios presented. But I haven’t heard a single argument laid for the best-case scenario.”

From "Hollow City" by Ransom Riggs

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023