informal10K+

UK//ˈbɑːskɪt.keɪs//US//ˈbæskɪt.keɪs//

Meaning of Basket-case

A person who is extremely anxious or unable to function normally.

In simple words: A person who is very anxious or unable to cope.

Basket-case in a sentence

  • After the deadline passed, she felt like a complete basket-case.
  • He turned into a basket-case when the exam results were announced.
  • Juggling work and personal life made him feel like a basket-case.
  • During finals week, I was a total basket-case.
  • My friend was a basket-case about her presentation later that day.

How to use Basket-case

Often used humorously or lightly to describe someone overwhelmed by stress or anxiety. Can be offensive if used to describe someone's mental health seriously.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a basket filled with stressed-out people, can't function properly.

Related words

Collocations with Basket-case

  • total basket-case
  • feeling like a basket-case
  • act like a basket-case

Synonyms for Basket-case

Opposites of Basket-case

Common mistakes with Basket-case

  • Using it in a formal context.
  • Confusing it with 'case' referring to an object.
  • Assuming it only refers to physical situations.

Basket-case appears in

Basket-case in other languages

More words like Basket-case

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Frequently asked questions about Basket-case

What does Basket-case mean?

A person who is very anxious or unable to cope.

What is the definition of Basket-case?

A person who is extremely anxious or unable to function normally.

How do you use Basket-case in a sentence?

After the deadline passed, she felt like a complete basket-case.

Can you give another example of Basket-case?

He turned into a basket-case when the exam results were announced.

What are synonyms for Basket-case?

Common alternatives include nervous wreck, basket case, anxiety-prone, overwhelmed, stressed.

What is the opposite of Basket-case?

Opposite meanings include calm, sane.

What words go with Basket-case?

It commonly pairs with total basket-case, feeling like a basket-case, act like a basket-case.

What are common mistakes when using Basket-case?

Using it in a formal context. Confusing it with 'case' referring to an object. Assuming it only refers to physical situations.

How do you pronounce Basket-case?

US: //ˈbæskɪt.keɪs//, UK: //ˈbɑːskɪt.keɪs//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Basket-case formal or informal?

"Basket-case" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Basket-case?

Often used humorously or lightly to describe someone overwhelmed by stress or anxiety. Can be offensive if used to describe someone's mental health seriously.