at worst

1. Under the worst conditions; as the worst possibility.

When Don was caught cheating in the examination he thought that at worst he would get a scolding.

Compare: [AT MOST].

Contrast: [AT BEST].

2. In the least favorable view, to say the worst about a thing.

The treasurer had certainly not stolen any of the club's money; at worst, he had forgotten to write down some of the things he had spent money for.

Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms

Tags:

	See also »
	if worst comes to worst [if worst comes to worst] If the worst thing happens that be imagined; if the ... A Dictionary of American Idioms get the worst of [get the worst of] also [have the worst of] {v. phr.} To lose; be defeated ... A Dictionary of American Idioms at best [at best] or [at the best] {adv. phr.} 1. Under the best conditions; as the ... A Dictionary of American Idioms do one's worst [do one's worst] {v. phr.} To do one's utmost by resorting to every foul means ... A Dictionary of American Idioms come [come] See: [CHICKENS COME HOME TO ROOST], [CROSS A BRIDGE BEFORE ONE COMES TO IT], ... A Dictionary of American Idioms Maureen Lipman (1946--) British actress You know the worst thing about oral sex? The view. www.sky-net-eye.com hit bottom [hit bottom] or [touch bottom] {v. phr.}, {informal} 1. To be at the very lowest. ... A Dictionary of American Idioms

	Recent updates »
	have none of [have none of] {v. phr.} To refuse to approve or allow. The teacher said she would have none of Mike's arguing. When the ... bring to terms [bring to terms] {v. phr.} To make (someone) agree or do; make surrender. The two brothers were brought to terms by their ... hit the jackpot [hit the jackpot] {v. phr.}, {slang} To be very lucky or successful. Mr. Brown invented a new gadget which hit the jackpot. ...