worst comes to worst
If a possible worst-case scenario actually occurs.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“If worst comes to worst, we can take the bus.”
“If worst comes to worst, we just order a pizza for the guests.”
“I have enough savings to pay the rent for two months if worst comes to worst and I lose my job.”
“You should bring a physical map for the hike because if worst comes to worst and your phone dies, you will still find your way back.”
“The climbers carried extra supplies, knowing that if worst comes to worst, they might have to spend an unplanned night on the mountain.”
The idiom appears in its original form as "if the worst come to the worst," employing the subjunctive to suggest a hypothetical decline from a bad state to a final one. The construction implies a progression where the worst possible outcome transitions from a mere potentiality to the worst possible reality.
Modern usage frequently retains the two definite articles found in the earliest records. Several dictionaries continue to cite this specific arrangement as the only standard form for British English.
- 01
appetite comes with eating
Starting an activity increases one's desire to continue it.
- 02
as they come
As it is possible to be.
- 03
be one's own worst enemy
To act contrary to one's own interests; to cause problems for oneself; to self-sabotage.
- 04
blow to kingdom come
To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).
- 05
burn that bridge when one comes to it
To anticipate dealing with a problem or situation either by acting in a manner that alienates or cuts ties with others, or merely with the expectation of encountering trouble.
- 06
Christmas come early
Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.
- 07
come a cropper
To suffer some accident or misfortune; to fail.
- 08
come a long way
To make significant progress.
Last updated August 10, 2026