# scenario

/sɪˈnɛɹioʊ/ (US) · /sənˈɑːɹiˌəʊ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scenario
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. a possible situation

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a description of how things might happen in the future or a possible situation you imagine.

For teachers: a hypothetical or projected sequence of events, often used to evaluate potential outcomes or risks.

- In the worst-case scenario, the flight will be cancelled and we will have to stay in a hotel.
- Economists are currently modelling a scenario where global trade remains stagnant for the next decade, forcing nations to rely more heavily on domestic production.

Usage: Often used with 'worst-case' or 'best-case' to describe extreme possibilities.

### 2. a plot outline

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a summary or outline of the story in a play, film, or book.

For teachers: an outline or summary of the plot of a dramatic or literary work, providing the framework for the narrative.

- The director asked for a detailed scenario of the first act before they started filming.
- The playwright submitted a ten-page scenario that meticulously detailed the character arcs and major plot points of the upcoming production.

Teaching tip: While this sense is the origin of the word, modern speakers usually use 'script' or 'synopsis' instead.

## Examples

- In the worst-case scenario, we will have to start over.
- The emergency team practiced for a scenario where the city's power grid fails during a storm.
- Economists are currently modeling a scenario in which global trade slows down significantly due to rising tariffs and supply chain disruptions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.