at worst — in the most unfavorable circumstances; if the worst possible thing happens
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: in the most unfavorable circumstances; if the worst possible thing happens
Pronunciation (IPA): /æt wɜːrst/
Example Sentences
- At worst, your presentation will be boring, not a disaster.
- At worst, mom will find my hidden snacks and lecture me for an hour.
- The exam is tomorrow, but at worst, I'll just have to retake it.
at worst
ADVERB[/æt wɜːrst/]
in the most unfavorable circumstances; if the worst possible thing happens
in the most unfavorable circumstances; if the worst possible thing happens
At first rehearsed, at worst still blessed with courage!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This adverbial phrase developed from Old English by combining the preposition 'at' with 'worst', the superlative form of the adjective 'bad'. The construction emerged to denote the most unfavorable point or circumstance in a given situation.
Breakdown
at (preposition, meaning 'in' or 'on') + worst (superlative adjective, from Old English 'wyrsa', meaning 'worse' or 'most bad'). The phrase functions as an adverbial modifier indicating the worst-case scenario or most negative outcome.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“At worst, your presentation will be boring, not a disaster.”
“At worst, mom will find my hidden snacks and lecture me for an hour.”
“The exam is tomorrow, but at worst, I'll just have to retake it.”
“At worst, the wifi will crash during my online meeting with my crush.”
📚Related Words
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