worst-case

American  

[wurst-keys] / ˈwɜrstˌkeɪs /

adjective

1. of the worst possibility; being the worst result that could be expected under the circumstances.

   a worst-case scenario.

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worst case British  

noun

1. 1. a situation in which the most unfavourable conditions prevail

   2. ( as modifier )

      a worst-case projection of a massive accident

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Etymology

Origin of worst-case

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

In a worst-case scenario, OPEC+ holds some spare capacity to offset disruption: Saudi Aramco’s quickly deployable reserve is probably closer to two million to three million bpd in practice.

From Barron's

In a worst-case scenario, OPEC+ holds some spare capacity to offset disruption: Saudi Aramco’s quickly deployable reserve is probably closer to two million to three million bpd in practice.

From Barron's

“If you invest only for the worst-case scenario, you will never be invested,” writes Keith Lerner, chief market strategist at Truist Wealth, of the Citrini upheaval.

From Barron's

“In the worst-case scenario, potentially fraudulent operators could, you know, full-on take the ID or resell it,” said Mir.

From The Wall Street Journal

Experts say open communication is key with house swapping: Be clear about your expectations and agree on how to handle worst-case scenarios.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• absolute
• all-out
• sheer
• ultimate
• unconditional