scenario

noun

sce·​nar·​io sə-ˈner-ē-ˌō 

 US also and especially British  -ˈnär-

plural scenarios

1

a

: an outline or synopsis of a play

especially : a plot outline used by actors of the commedia dell'arte

b

: the libretto of an opera

2

a

: screenplay

b

: shooting script

3

: a sequence of events especially when imagined

especially : an account or synopsis of a possible course of action or events

his scenario for a settlement envisages … reunification

—Selig Harrison

Synonyms

• screenplay
• script

Examples of scenario in a Sentence

A possible scenario would be that we move to the city.

The most likely scenario is that he goes back to school in the fall.

The best-case scenario would be for us to finish the work by tomorrow.

In the worst-case scenario, we would have to start the project all over again.

Recent Examples on the Web

Worst-case scenario, if Carter acts out again, Golden State can simply cut her and look to the 2026 draft for its next chance at a star. 7. —Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025

While models suggest a range of potential scenarios for oil demand going forward, there is wide agreement that not all oil reserves can be exploited profitably. —Justin Worland, TIME, 21 Jan. 2025

The early signs of economic weakness could serve as headwinds to continued rallies or, in a worst-case scenario, trigger significant corrections. —Dan Irvine, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

In a best-case scenario, these situations can give you the opportunity to stretch, shine, and materialize a dream. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin scaenarium place for erecting stages, from scaena stage

First Known Use

1768, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

scenario

noun

sce·​nar·​io sə-ˈnar-ē-ˌō 

-ˈner-,

-ˈnär-

plural scenarios

1

a

: an outline of a play

b

: the text of an opera

2

: screenplay

3

: a sequence of events especially when imagined