in case
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in case
In the event that (something does or does not happen). I brought some snacks for us, in case we get stuck in traffic. Be sure to set two alarms, just in case the first one doesn't go off. I always carry a flashlight in my purse, just in case.
See also: case
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
in case (something happens)
in the event that something takes place. She carries an umbrella in case it rains. I have some aspirin in my office in case I get a headache. He keeps afire extinguisher in his car, just in case.
See also: case
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
in case
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.
See also: case
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
(just) in case
so as to be prepared for what may or may not happen: Somebody should stay at home in case John phones. ♢ ‘Did Clara say she’d phone?’ ‘No, but somebody should stay here just in case.’See also: case
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
in case
1. If it happens that; if.
2. As a precaution: took along an umbrella, just in case.
See also: case
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.