Lesson

In case

Precautionary clauses

≈ 15 min 8 block(s)

Text

What does "in case" mean?

"In case" is used to talk about precautions — actions taken to prepare for a possible event. It shows that you do something now because a particular situation might happen later.

  • "In case" + clause (use present/simple or past) expresses a precaution: Take notes in case you need them later.
  • "In case of" + noun names the situation directly: In case of emergency, call 911.
  • "Just in case" is an informal variation meaning 'to be safe' or 'as a precaution'.

Table

Common forms with "in case"

Form Structure Example
Precaution with clause in case + present simple Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Precaution for past possibility in case + past I saved the file in case I needed it later.
Formal notice in case of + noun In case of fire, use the stairs.
Informal expression just in case + clause I brought a charger, just in case my battery dies.
Negative precaution in case + clause (negative allowed) Lock the door in case someone tries to enter.
Avoid using 'will' after 'in case' incorrect: in case + will Incorrect: Take an umbrella in case it will rain.

Tip

Key rule: Verb form after "in case"

Use the present simple (or past for past situations) after "in case" — not "will".

  • Correct: I printed copies in case the projector fails.
  • Incorrect: I printed copies in case the projector will fail.

Remember: 'in case' refers to a possible event, so use present simple for future possibility.

Example

Examples in context

I saved a backup of the presentation in case the file becomes corrupted.

Bring a business card, just in case you meet a potential client.

In case of a power outage, the office has an emergency generator.

We scheduled a backup meeting room in case the main room is occupied.

Tip

Common mistakes with "in case"

Avoid these frequent errors learners make with 'in case':

  • Using 'will' after 'in case' (Incorrect): 'in case it will rain.'
  • Confusing 'in case' with 'if' — they are not always interchangeable.
  • Using 'in case of' before a verb instead of a noun (Incorrect): 'in case of it rains.'
  • Saying 'in case if' — this is redundant. Use only 'in case' or 'if', not both.

Check the structure: 'in case' + clause (present/past) or 'in case of' + noun.

Quiz

Choose the correct sentence:

Hint: Check the verb form after 'in case'.

Quiz

Complete: They printed extra copies _____ the projector fails.

Hint: What expression introduces a precaution in this lesson?

Quiz

Choose the correct sign text for emergencies:

Hint: Look for the option that pairs 'in case of' with a noun.

Key Points

GrammarPoint

in case

expression CEFR B1 //ɪn keɪs//

Used to indicate a precaution taken because something might happen.

I left early in case there is heavy traffic.

GrammarPoint

in case of

prepositional phrase CEFR B1 //ɪn keɪs əv//

Used before a noun to indicate what to do in a particular situation.

In case of emergency, follow the exit signs.

Expression

just in case

expression CEFR B1 //dʒʌst ɪn keɪs//

An informal way to say 'as a precaution' or 'to be safe'.

I printed the agenda, just in case we need it.

Vocabulary

precaution

noun CEFR B2 //prɪˈkɔːʃən//

An action taken to prevent possible problems or dangers.

Taking backups is a good precaution for important documents.

Vocabulary

backup

noun CEFR B1 //ˈbækʌp//

A copy of data stored separately to prevent loss.

We keep a backup of all client files on a secure server.

Vocabulary

emergency

noun CEFR B1 //ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi//

A serious or unexpected situation requiring immediate action.

In case of emergency, contact the office manager.