just in case: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘just in case’ mean?
The idiom *just in case* means to do something as a precaution or in preparation for a possible future event or situation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in the cards" means something is likely to happen or is destined to happen.
The idiom "in addition" means to include or introduce something extra or supplementary to what is already present or available.
The idiom "if needs be" means that if it is necessary or required, one is willing to do something, even if it is not preferred or convenient.
The idiom "if anything" is used to express the idea that something is unlikely or even the opposite of what is expected. It introduces a slight doubt or contradiction in a statement.
The idiom "hold onto your hat" means to prepare oneself for something surprising or exciting that is about to happen. It is often used to indicate that someone should be ready for a fast or unpredictable experience.
The idiom "had better" is used to advise or warn someone about a particular action they should take in order to avoid a negative outcome. It implies a sense of urgency or necessity, often indicating that there may be negative consequences if the suggested action is not followed.
The idiom "for this once" means to make an exception or allow something to happen just this one time.
The idiom "for good measure" means to do something in addition to what is necessary or expected, often for extra effect or completeness.
The idiom "fancy one's chances" means to believe or have confidence in one's likelihood of success in a particular situation or endeavor.
The Significance of Precaution
The idiom "just in case" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It is often used to convey the idea of taking preventative measures or being prepared for a possible future event or circumstance.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the combination of the adverbs "just" and "in case," both of which have their own distinct meanings. "Just" denotes fairness, correctness, or the exactness of something, while "in case" means as a precaution or with the intention of being prepared for a specific event.
When combined, the idiom "just in case" implies taking action or making decisions based on the possibility of a future event occurring, even if the likelihood of that event happening is uncertain. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared and considering all potential outcomes.
This idiom can be used in various contexts, in everyday conversation and in written works. It justifies or explains why someone is doing something, such as carrying an umbrella on a sunny day "just in case" it starts to rain, or bringing an extra set of clothes on a trip "just in case" something gets spilled or stained.
Furthermore, "just in case" also expresses caution or safeguarding against potential negative outcomes. For example, someone may say, "I locked all the windows before leaving, just in case someone tries to break in." It conveys the idea of taking preventative measures to avoid any harm or damage.
The idiom "just in case" emphasizes the importance of preparedness and being proactive to mitigate potential risks or uncertainties. It serves as a reminder to consider all possibilities and take necessary precautions, even if they may seem unnecessary or unlikely at the time.
The idiom "just in case" is related to the idiom "accident waiting to happen." Both idioms highlight the importance of preparing for negative outcomes. While "just in case" focuses on taking preventative measures to avoid potential harm or damage, an "accident waiting to happen" refers to a situation that is likely to result in an accident or a negative event occurring. It implies the need for caution and proactive action to prevent the anticipated accident or negative event from happening.
The idiom "if needs be" is another related idiom to "just in case." "If needs be" means if it is necessary or required. This idiom conveys the idea of being prepared to take action or make a decision if the situation demands it. Similarly, "just in case" signifies the importance of being prepared and taking preventative measures in case a future event or circumstance requires a response or action.
The idiom "just in case" is also associated with the idiom "for good measure." "For good measure" means to do something as an additional precaution, even if it may not be necessary or expected. It denotes going above and beyond what is required to ensure completeness or thoroughness. Similarly, "just in case" urges individuals to take additional measures or precautions to be fully prepared for potential future events, even if they may seem unlikely or unnecessary.
Finally, the idiom "just in case" is related to the idiom "at the ready." "At the ready" means being prepared or in a state of readiness to take action or respond as needed. It conveys the idea of being poised and alert for any potential situation. Similarly, "just in case" urges individuals to be prepared and ready for any possible future event or circumstance, highlighting the importance of being proactive and taking preventative measures.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "just in case" can be used in a sentence:
- I packed an extra pair of socks just in case my feet get wet.
- She brought an umbrella just in case it starts raining.
- They carried snacks with them just in case they get hungry during the hike.
The phrase "just in case" is often used to describe preparing or taking precautions for a possible future event or outcome. It indicates the action of being prepared for something that may or may not happen. In the examples provided, the phrase is used to express the idea of having something available or ready to use in the event that a specific situation or condition arises.
More "Precaution" idioms
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