Idiom idiom
in case
Meaning
you use this to talk about doing something now to prepare for a possible problem or situation in the future.
Examples
“Take an umbrella in case it rains later.”
“I am bringing extra cash in case the restaurant does not accept credit cards.”
“She packed a small first-aid kit and a map in her backpack in case they became separated from the main group during the hike.”
Origin
From Middle English *Term?*. The construction emerged as a prepositional phrase to indicate precaution or contingency.
Last updated April 22, 2026