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 .

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Example Sentences

A 38-year-old man from Tehran said he has built up a survival kit of canned goods, water, power banks and rechargeable emergency lights just in case.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

“I wasn’t thinking, ‘I really need to make sure I stay in this ZIP Code in case I run for mayor,’” Pratt said in the video.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Prior to the amendment, the constitution designated the leader of the Senate to briefly take over in case the sitting president dies or is incapacitated.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Various branches of the military draw up plans for all sorts of contingencies in case the president thinks about ordering one.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Or he could text his friends in case one of them has.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison