in the worst way

Idioms  

1. Desperately, very much, as in He wanted a new trumpet in the worst way. This usage replaced worst kind. [Colloquial; second half of 1800s]

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Example Sentences

Shows of the era, Anderson finds, often tackled difficult subjects in the worst way possible, but “they really meant well.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

The skepticism over hedging will inevitably be challenged in the worst way, though when that occurs is impossible to know.

From Barron's • Nov. 12, 2025

The Diamondbacks need it in the worst way if they’re going to send this series back to Texas.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2023

"Although the process is a rollercoaster in the worst way possible, from the second you leave that court for the final time you're now free to live your life on your terms," Jennifer said.

From BBC • Aug. 29, 2023

Lin wanted in the worst way to whip his father at racing, to knock his Seabiscuit down a peg or two, and he believed he had the horse to do it in Ligaroti.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand