A2adjective 1K

Worst

🇬🇧 UK /["/wɜːst/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/wɜːrst/"]/

Meaning of Worst

of the poorest quality or lowest standard; worse than any other person or thing of a similar kind

In simple words: the lowest quality or the most unfortunate

Worst in a sentence

• It was by far the worst speech he had ever made.
• It's not the worst idea I've ever heard.
• What's the **worst thing** that could happen?
• What she said confirmed my **worst fears** *(= proved they were right)*.
• This is every parent's **worst nightmare**.
• Her indecisiveness makes her her own worst enemy.
• Some dancers become their own worst enemies, criticizing themselves for every imperfection.

How to use Worst

Use 'worst' when comparing things. It's appropriate in both spoken and written language, but avoid using it in overly formal contexts where 'least' might be preferable.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'worst' as 'worst-case scenario' – the most negative outcome.

Related words

Collocations with Worst

• worst case
• worst nightmare
• the worst position
• the worst mistake
• the worst time

Synonyms for Worst

• least good
• poorest
• most terrible
• most unpleasant
• most unfortunate

Opposites of Worst

• best
• finest
• optimal

Common mistakes with Worst

• Using 'worst' instead of 'worse' in comparisons.
• Confusing 'worst' with 'bad' without considering the comparative context.
• Mixing up 'worst' as a noun instead of an adjective.

Frequently asked questions about Worst

What does Worst mean?

the lowest quality or the most unfortunate

What is the definition of Worst?

of the poorest quality or lowest standard; worse than any other person or thing of a similar kind

How do you use Worst in a sentence?

It was by far the worst speech he had ever made.

Can you give another example of Worst?

It's not the worst idea I've ever heard.

What are synonyms for Worst?

Common alternatives include least good, poorest, most terrible, most unpleasant, most unfortunate.

What is the opposite of Worst?

Opposite meanings include best, finest, optimal.

What words go with Worst?

It commonly pairs with worst case, worst nightmare, the worst position, the worst mistake, the worst time.

What are common mistakes when using Worst?

Using 'worst' instead of 'worse' in comparisons. Confusing 'worst' with 'bad' without considering the comparative context. Mixing up 'worst' as a noun instead of an adjective.

How do you pronounce Worst?

US: /["/wɜːrst/"]/, UK: /["/wɜːst/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Worst?

Use 'worst' when comparing things. It's appropriate in both spoken and written language, but avoid using it in overly formal contexts where 'least' might be preferable.

What CEFR level is Worst?

"Worst" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.