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

“And also, glad there are protections in place in case any fools try to use both. Good grief!!”

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 20, 2026

To do so, they would have to tap in to savings that Glenn-Rhodes felt wouldn’t leave them enough in case of an emergency.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 19, 2026

Nunez told France 2 that officers could use stun grenades in case of "extremely serious urban violence".

From Barron's ● Oct. 16, 2026

An installment sale or promissory note could certainly make that happen, but I’d be wary of stretching payments out that far just to protect Son #2 in case of divorce.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 15, 2026

She wished it would turn around and blow Jack home, and she climbed the tall palm tree just in case she could see the white sails.

From "Nim’s Island" by Wendy Orr

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---