worst of both worlds
English
Etymology
Inversion of best of both worlds.
Pronunciation
Audio (AU): (file)
Noun
worst of both worlds (uncountable)
- (idiomatic, singular only) A solution or scenario which combines the disadvantages of two opposed prior solutions, often having been intended to combine their benefits instead.
- 2004: Paul H. Douglas Ethics in Government Program, The Challenge of Terrorism: Protecting Citizens, Preserving Values, essay 1: Nadine Strossen, “The Worst of Both Worlds: Violating Rights without Gaining Security” (Institute of Government and Public Affairs, University of Illinois)
- The Worst of Both Worlds: Violating Rights without Gaining Security
- 2004: Paul H. Douglas Ethics in Government Program, The Challenge of Terrorism: Protecting Citizens, Preserving Values, essay 1: Nadine Strossen, “The Worst of Both Worlds: Violating Rights without Gaining Security” (Institute of Government and Public Affairs, University of Illinois)
Antonyms
- (combination of the worst): best of both worlds