couldn't be worse/better

phrase

: to be as bad/good as it can be

The situation couldn't be worse/better.

Browse Nearby Words

couldn't be happier

couldn't be worse/better

couldn't/can't say

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Couldn't be worse/better.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/couldn%27t%20be%20worse%2Fbetter. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

couldn't be worse/better

phrase

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

libertine

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

The Words of the Week - Mar. 6

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

17 Words for Dog Breeds

Birds Say the Darndest Things

Even More Bird Names that Sound Like Insults (and Sometimes Are)

Popular

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

The Words of the Week - Mar. 6

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

Games & Quizzes