in case

1. Also, just in case . If it should happen that. For example, In case he doesn't show up, we have a backup speaker . The variant also is used without a following clause to mean simply “as a precaution,” as in I took an umbrella just in case . [c. 1400]

2. in case of ; in the event of . If there should happen to be. For example, Here is a number to call in case of an emergency , or In the event of a power failure, we'll have to shift our plans . Similarly, in that case means “if that should happen,” as in You're alone in the store? In that case I'll bring your lunch . The first usage dates from the early 1700s, the second (with event ) from about 1600, and the third from the mid-1800s. Also see in any case ; in no case ; in the case of .

Example Sentences

Mr Patel said he did not know where the money was and did not want to discuss what happened, in case it prejudiced any future court case against Vashi.

From BBC

President Dwight Eisenhower — a Republican, in case you hadn’t noticed — sent the National Guard to Arkansas’ capital city to enforce the terms of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Brown v.

From Salon

They had enough provisions to last 150 days, but Lachlan said they started rationing their supplies in the final few weeks just in case of further delays in reaching Australia.

From BBC

He always kept his phone near, in case Ciau or one of the kids called.

From Los Angeles Times

“The fear is there, and I’m still building the channels, but I am preparing, just in case my channels become irrelevant,” Chang, 33, said.

From Los Angeles Times