A basket case Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A person or thing that is completely unable to function normally, usually because of emotional stress or chaos. Informally used for someone or something in a hopeless or ruined state.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and sometimes humorous; mainly describes people who are extremely anxious or situations that are out of control. Not polite for formal contexts—best for casual conversation. Can refer to either mental/emotional breakdowns or a total mess.
Example Sentences
After the accident, he was a basket case for months.
basic
She felt like a basket case before her final exams.
basic
This old computer is a basket case now and won’t start.
basic
Don’t ask me to help, I’m already a basket case today!
natural
By the end of the week, the team was completely a basket case from stress.
natural
He used to handle anything, but after the layoffs, he’s just a basket case.
natural