What does “Basket case” mean?
"A basket case" means a person or thing that is completely incapable or helpless.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the car accident, he was a basket case and couldn't do anything for himself.
Example
The company's financial situation was so bad that it was considered a basket case by investors.
Example
She was so nervous before her presentation that she felt like a basket case
Is “Basket case” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Basket case” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Basket case” effectively in context?
You can use "Basket Case" to describe someone or something that is completely incapable or helpless. It emphasizes a state of extreme distress or dysfunction. For example, if a friend is overwhelmed with stress and unable to function, you might say, 'Ever since she lost her job, she's been a complete basket case.'
- 1Emotional Distress
After the breakup, he was a basket case and couldn't stop crying.
- 2Financial Troubles
The company's bankruptcy left it a basket case in the eyes of investors.
- 3Nervousness
She was so anxious before the exam that she felt like a basket case.
Similar phrases to “Basket case”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Basket case” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Basket Case" is uncertain. One theory suggests that it originated from World War I, where soldiers who had lost all their limbs were carried in baskets. Another theory suggests that it comes from the American slang term 'basket case,' which referred to a soldier who had lost both arms and legs and needed to be carried in a basket.
Is “Basket case” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Basket Case" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who is extremely distressed or unable to cope with a situation.
What tone does “Basket case” have?
"Basket Case" conveys a tone of sympathy or concern. It is used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme distress or helplessness.
Can “Basket case” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "basket case" is informal and is commonly used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Ever since the accident, he has been a complete basket case.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I feel like a "basket case"!' to express feeling overwhelmed.
