in case

Idioms  

1. Also, just in case . If it should happen that. For example, In case he doesn't show up, we have a backup speaker . The variant also is used without a following clause to mean simply “as a precaution,” as in I took an umbrella just in case . [c. 1400]

2. in case of ; in the event of . If there should happen to be. For example, Here is a number to call in case of an emergency , or In the event of a power failure, we'll have to shift our plans . Similarly, in that case means “if that should happen,” as in You're alone in the store? In that case I'll bring your lunch . The first usage dates from the early 1700s, the second (with event ) from about 1600, and the third from the mid-1800s. Also see in any case ; in no case ; in the case of .

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in case

"We had already packed suitcases just in case, but they gave us only two minutes and carefully checked that nobody was still inside the house," she said.

From Barron's ● Jul. 24, 2026

This time, Gonzalez arrived with permission from the county and painted on a detachable fabric in case the mural needs to be removed.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 13, 2026

Be sure to eat a good breakfast and bring a jacket just in case of rain.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 10, 2026

The academic Fery studied for a degree in science, technology and society, giving him a back-up in case tennis did not work out but also allowing him to sharpen his game on a tennis scholarship.

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026

Dit dit dit; dah dah dah; dit dit dit was the one they would use only in case of emergency.

From "All About Sam" by Lois Lowry