in case

1 of 2

conjunction

1

: as a precaution against the event that

carries an umbrella in case it rains

2

: if

In case we are surprised, keep by me.

—Washington Irving

in case

2 of 2

phrase

: as a precaution

took an umbrella, just in case

Examples of in case in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Conjunction

Both are close to major-league ready, so the Mariners are protected in case there are injuries or underperformance the rest of the way. — Jim Bowden, New York Times, 20 July 2026

There were earthquake survivors who feared calling out for help in the language, in case the rescuers turned away. — Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026

Thus, in recent years, Borelli sought to create a buffer zone in case of a nearby fire and to make other improvements to the site. — Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2026

The only likely change is the return of Rodrigo De Paul, in case Scaloni doesn't need the lightning pac of Giuliano Simeone anymore. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 18 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Conjunction

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for in case

• abase
• airspace
• apace
• backspace
• biface
• birthplace
• blackface
• boldface
• bookcase
• braincase
• briefcase
• carcase