conjunction

in case

in KAYS

In case (conjunction) means Because something might happen; used to explain a precaution taken against a possibility. Example: “Take an umbrella in case it rains.”

conjunction

Because something might happen; used to explain a precaution taken against a possibility.

"Take an umbrella in case it rains."

"I wrote the address down in case my phone died."

phrase

In case of: if a particular thing happens; used mainly in notices and instructions.

"In case of fire, use the stairs."

"Break the glass in case of emergency."

informal Just in case: as a precaution, without knowing whether it will be needed.

"I packed a spare charger, just in case."

How to Use In case

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing something now because something else might happen later.

When to use it

Neutral; in case of is characteristic of signs and official instructions.

Memory tip

In case means as a precaution; in any case means anyway. They are not interchangeable.

Easily confused with

if → in the event that in any case

Common pairings

just in case in case of emergency in case you forgot

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “in case” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Take an umbrella _____ it rains.

Synonyms

View more →

lest for fear that in the event of

Related Words

lest

Rhymes for in case

case base mase vase ease tase Jase erase cease phase pease chase

See all rhymes for in case →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between in case and if?

If describes what you will do when something happens; in case describes what you do beforehand because it might. Compare "I'll take an umbrella if it rains" (you check the weather first) with "I'll take an umbrella in case it rains" (you take it now, whatever happens).

Is it correct to say in case of rain?

Yes. In case of takes a noun, so in case of rain, in case of fire and in case of delay are all standard, while in case takes a whole clause, as in in case it rains.

Do you use the future tense after in case?

No, not in standard English. Say in case it rains, not in case it will rain. For a past situation use the past tense: I locked it in case someone came in.

People Also Searched

lest