"in the worst case scenario" vs "in a worst case scenario"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'In the worst case scenario' is the more common and idiomatic expression, referring to the most extreme or unfavorable outcome. 'In a worst case scenario' is also grammatically correct but is less commonly used and may imply one of several possible worst outcomes.

Last updated: March 26, 2024

"in the worst case scenario"

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to refer to the most extreme or unfavorable outcome that could possibly occur in a given situation.

Examples:

In the worst case scenario, we may have to shut down the entire project.
In the worst case scenario, the patient may not survive the surgery.

Alternatives:

in a worst case scenario
in a worst-case scenario
in the worst-case scenario

"in a worst case scenario"

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

This phrase is also used to refer to a possible extreme or unfavorable outcome, but it may imply one of several worst outcomes rather than the single worst outcome.

Examples:

In a worst case scenario, we could lose all our savings.
In a worst case scenario, the company may go bankrupt.

Show examples from the web [+]

That would only happen in a worst-case scenario.
These shelters are meant to be totally self-sustaining in a worst-case scenario.
But, in a worst case scenario, as much as EUR 300 million per year is theoretically possible for the later years of the FP.
In a worst-case scenario, that's where this could end up.
The impact on consumers, even in a worst case scenario, is therefore likely to be small.
If incorrect data is not quickly removed from profiles then it could result in restrictions or travel, visa applications, bans on employment or banking or in a worst case scenario, the loss of liberty.
This kind of enduring intervention distorts the market; an extremely dangerous game which, in a worst case scenario, could bring the entire global economy to its knees.
All tranches in a securitisation should be treated equally as, in a worst case scenario, subordinated tranches may disappear very quickly.
In a worst case scenario Citadele banka is expected to return to profitability in 2013 and to improve its results further in 2014.
It is not desirable to leave this up to each Member State to regulate, as this might result in additional and unreasonable administrative burdens on these suppliers, as they may, in a worst case scenario, be required to register for VAT in every Member State.
The UN also called on the global community to come forward with funds to help stave off the potential for a pandemic, which in a worst-case scenario could kill tens of millions of people around the world.
But I assure you that plan will only be executed in a worst case scenario.
The expected losses covered by the risk shield for off-balance-sheet assets in Rhineland increased from the original estimate of EUR 2,5 billion in a worst-case scenario to EUR 7,0 billion [11].
In a worst case scenario, the bank would still generate profits, with net profit improving from DKK 51 million (EUR 6,8 million) in 2013 to DKK 122 million (EUR 16,27 million) in 2016.
In a worst-case future scenario... a space station crew is unable to quickly extinguish a fire.
The subgroup further recommended, at its meeting of 18 February 2015, that emission testing is not necessary when the formamide content is 200 mg/kg or less (cut-off value derived in a worst-case exposure scenario).
As regards the assessment of the first measure, Germany therefore claims that only the losses initially estimated should be considered. That would mean losses of EUR 3,5 billion in a worst-case and EUR [< 2,5] billion in a mid-case scenario.
In a worst case, we hope only the memories that we targeted could be lost.
In a worst case, we hope only the memories that we targeted could be lost.
Gordon, this is a worst-case scenario.

Alternatives:

in the worst case scenario
in the worst-case scenario
in the worst-case scenario

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"in the worst case scenario" vs "in a worst case scenario"