worst of both worlds

English

Etymology

Antonym of best of both worlds.

Pronunciation

• Audio (General Australian):

  (file)

Noun

worst of both worlds (uncountable)

1. (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.

   Antonym: best of both worlds

   • 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

Translations

scenario which combines disadvantages

• Chinese:

  Mandarin: please add this translation if you can

• Dutch: please add this translation if you can
• Finnish: huonot puolet molemmista pl

See also

• double-whammy
• catch-22
• no-win situation