lest
lehst
Lest (conj) means used to introduce something that must be avoided or guarded against; so that not; in case. Example: “She kept quiet lest she reveal the surprise.”
conj
1
Used to introduce something that must be avoided or guarded against; so that not; in case.
"She kept quiet lest she reveal the surprise."
"Take an umbrella, lest it rain later."
"He double-checked the lock lest anyone should wander in during the night."
How to use lest
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal way of saying "so that (something bad) doesn't happen" or "in case."
When to use it
Fairly formal or literary; in everyday speech people usually say "in case" or "so that ... doesn't" instead.
Common pairings
lest we forget
lest it happen again
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She kept quiet _____ she reveal the surprise.
Etymology
A contraction of Old English forms meaning roughly "whereby less that" — literally "so that it be less the case that."
Synonyms
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for fear that
Related words
Rhymes for lest
See all rhymes for lest →Frequently asked questions
What does “lest” mean?
The word “lest” means used to introduce something that must be avoided or guarded against; so that not; in case. In plain terms, a formal way of saying "so that (something bad) doesn't happen" or "in case.".
How do you pronounce “lest”?
“Lest” is pronounced lehst (/lɛst/ in IPA).
How do you use “lest” in a sentence?
Here is “lest” used in a sentence: “She kept quiet lest she reveal the surprise.”
What part of speech is “lest”?
“Lest” is a conjunction.
Where does the word “lest” come from?
The word “lest” comes from Old English. A contraction of Old English forms meaning roughly "whereby less that" — literally "so that it be less the case that.".
Is “lest” a common word?
“Lest” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between lest and in case?
Lest and in case both introduce something to be avoided, but lest is more formal and typically implies a deliberate action taken to prevent a feared outcome, as in 'she whispered lest anyone hear.' In case is more everyday and often used for general precautions.
Does lest require a special verb form?
Lest is traditionally followed by the subjunctive mood or 'should' plus a base verb, as in 'lest he forget' or 'lest he should forget,' rather than an ordinary conjugated verb. This gives sentences using lest a formal, somewhat old-fashioned tone.
Is lest considered formal or old-fashioned?
Lest is generally considered formal and slightly archaic in modern English, more common in literary, legal, or ceremonial writing than in everyday conversation.
