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

And because the storyline called for employees who already knew one another, actors had to memorize years of shared backstory in case Norman asked about their history.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

Better to preserve some mysteries in case you haven’t watched.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

A wood stove heated our home, and we had kerosene lanterns at the ready in case of a power outage.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

Key estate-planning documents include a will and power of attorney for financial and medical decisions in case you become incapacitated.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

Mom asked for the day off a while ago, just in case I needed her.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy