万が一
Meanings
- Just in case
- In the worst-case scenario
- In the unlikely event
- By any chance
About this pattern
Explanation
万が一 is a cautious adverb used to talk about a very unlikely or unexpected possibility. It means “in the unlikely event” or “just in case,” and is often followed by a clause describing what you would do or what might happen if that rare situation occurred. It can stand at the beginning of a sentence to set up a hypothetical condition, or be used with 万が一のことがあっても to emphasize that you will still proceed despite a rare risk. It’s common in cautious planning, warnings, or plans for contingencies.
Learn in context
Example sentences
If by any chance it rains, the event will be canceled.
Even in the unlikely event, please handle it calmly.
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