In case and incase look similar, but they do very different jobs in English. One is a common phrase used for precaution; the other is almost never correct in modern writing. Mixing them up is easy—and very common—but the fix is simple once the roles are clear.
Incase or In Case
The key point is this: “in case” is always two words. The one-word form incase is almost always a mistake.
In Case: Meaning and Correct Usage
In case is a phrase used to talk about precaution—doing something now to prepare for a possible future situation.
In Case Examples:
- Keep these papers together in case they get lost.
- Take an umbrella in case it rains.
- In case of fire, use the stairs.
In case is always written as two separate words, no exceptions.
Incase: Why It’s Almost Always Wrong
Incase is not standard English. In modern usage, it is almost always a spelling mistake made when the writer actually means in case.
Historically, incase exists as a rare variant of the verb encase (meaning to enclose or cover), but this form is now considered outdated and nonstandard. In real writing, encase is the correct verb.
Correct Verb: Encase
- The witness box was encased in metal fencing.
- His broken leg was encased in plaster.
- The reactor is encased in concrete and steel.
If you see incase in modern text, there is a very high chance it should be in case.
In Case: Corrected Example Sentences
- Never walk behind a horse in case it kicks.
- We fenced off the lake in case the children fell in.
- She stepped away from the window in case anyone saw her.
- He didn’t mention his exam results in case people thought he was boasting.
- Keep your receipt in case you need to return the item.
- It may rain. You’d better take an umbrella in case.
- I don’t think I’ll need cash, but I’ll bring some in case.
- In case anyone was following me, I took an elaborate detour.
- Please remind me in case I forget.
- Be quiet in case you wake the baby.
Quick rule to remember:
- In case → always two words; used for precaution
- Incase → almost always wrong in modern English
- If you mean “just to be safe,” use in case
When in doubt, write it as two words. That choice will never let you down.
Last Updated on March 2, 2026
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