worst case scenario
The "worst case scenario" is the worst result that could happen in a situation. Use this phrase for talking about the possible negative consequences of something.
In spoken English, people often use "worst case scenario" like it's used in the example above:
Worst case scenario, we'll borrow some money from our savings account.
Worst case scenario, we'll lose maybe 5 or 6 hours of productive time.
But the more formally correct way to use it is this:
People actually often talk about the "worst case scenario" to make something seem safe. If you say that the "worst case scenario" is something that isn't really that bad, then it makes your decisions or actions seem OK. For example, moving back in with your parents isn't too bad, so it makes it seem OK that the speaker lost his job.
(someone) can always (do something)
When you're talking about a decision or a suggestion, the phrase "you can always ___" describes one possible choice. It's usually a choice that you're trying to avoid, but that you can take if you need to:
If we can't find one here, we can always order one online.
You can always ask your brother to hire you if you can't get a job anywhere else.
move back in with (one's parents)
After children grow up, they move out of their parents' house and live with roommates or on their own. If a person starts living with his or her parents again after moving out, it's called "moving back in with your parents":
When I was about 25, I had to move back in with my parentts for a few months.
(someone's) folks
"My folks" can mean your parents. This is a casual way to talk about your parents:
My folks moved here from China before I was born.
You can talk about other people's parents too:
How are your folks?
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