just in case
just in case
- to do something as a precautionary measure
- to engage in something that is meant as an alternative in case the original does not work
- The cake was ordered just in case the desert that she made did not turn up well.
- He called the doctor just in case he was still in the clinic.
- I know that you wanted to know just in case the bike was available but you have to realize that you cannot afford it.
- My father came all the way to see me in college just in case I needed something and did not ask it from him.
- Mother would always make some extra food everyday just in case a guest was to arrive.
- The birds flew away and the deer ran away. Just in case you don’t know, these are the signs that a predator is around somewhere.
- Do you know that he arranged for the funds just in case you decided to go ahead with the plan?
- My boss hired an extra person in the team just in case the client agrees to give us more work.
The phrase is believed to have been around since the 17th century.
Share your thoughts1 Thought
I always thought the phrase ‘just in case’ derived from the legal system at that time being primarily ‘trespass’ for direct injury or damage and ‘trespass on the case’ being for indirect injury or damage. So ‘Just in case’ derived from being careful to avoid being the defendant in a case against you for being negligent causing damage or injury. ‘Just’ from Justice, ‘in Case’ from trespass on the case which is often now shortened to case. So therefore act as to be Just in Case.
- Alison McKenzie June 19, 2020