unlikely

in the unlikely event (that) (something) happens

If a very improbable outcome turns out to be the case. I wouldn't worry too much, but in the unlikely event that you lose your job, you can always come live with us for a while. In the unlikely event I win the lottery, the first thing I would do is travel to Jamaica.
See also: event, happen, unlikely

in the unlikely event of (something)

If a very improbable outcome turns out to be the case. I wouldn't worry too much, but in the unlikely event of unemployment, you can always come live with us for a while. In the unlikely event of me winning the lottery, the first thing I would do is travel to Jamaica.
See also: event, of, unlikely
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

in the unlikely event of something

 and in the unlikely event that something happens
if something—which probably will not happen—actually happens. In the unlikely event of my getting the job, I'll have to buy a car to get there every day. In the unlikely event of a fire, please walk quickly to an exit.
See also: event, of, unlikely
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

in the unlikely event

If something improbable should occur. For example, In the unlikely event that I'm held up, please cover for me, or In the unlikely event that we should have snow in May, we're still well equipped to cope with it . Also see under in case, def. 2.
See also: event, unlikely
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
See also:
  • in the unlikely event
  • in the unlikely event (that) (something) happens
  • in the unlikely event of
  • in the unlikely event of (something)
  • a ragged colt may make a good horse
  • colt
  • (the) odds are against (something)
  • the odds are against something/somebody doing something
  • as a pig loves marjoram
  • at the worst
References in periodicals archive
Addressing the Australian Financial Review Business Summit in Sydney, governor Philip Lowe said the current rate of wage growth is unlikely to result in a 2.5-percent rise in inflation, which is the central bank's target.
Central bank says Australian interest rate unlikely to increase
If the name returns at all, it is unlikely to be before the early 2020s.
Mitsubishi unlikely to launch Evo
Physicians make health care predictions for 2017 Very Somewhat Somewhat Very likely likely unlikely unlikely Quality will improve 18% 22% 21% 39% Costs will improve 17% 14% 17% 53% Access will improve 12% 19% 20% 49% Note: Based on data from a "mobile microsurvey" completed by 150 physicians on Dec.
Survey: docs see health care improvements as unlikely in 2017
Long said that in the unlikely event that the Fed does raise rates, the increase would likely be 25 basis points.
Fed Unlikely to Raise Rates This Week, NAFCU's Long Says
"I would say it's more unlikely than likely that he'll be running in the Derby.
Gos star is doubt for Derby
Fitch believes public banks are unlikely to significantly raise their risk appetites over the near term.
Brazil's move modestly positive for liquidity of three affected lenders
Jamie Murray was listed alongside Dominic Inglot when the draw was made for the World Group first-round tie against the United States and the former Wimbledon champion says the team is unlikely to change ahead of tomorrow's doubles action.
Murrays unlikely to pair up; TENNIS
The world No.5 said: "I would say it is unlikely I will play the doubles but if it's required then I obviously know Jamie's game well, and Dom's.
Murray: Sibling rivalry a no-no; TENNIS
Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO comes from the successful owner of an award-winning global public relations agency, who began his career at nearly forty lacking all of the usual credentials associated with being a CEO--education, business background, and even business attire.
Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO
"An Unlikely Vineyard: The Education of a Farmer and Her Quest for Terroir" is an exceptionally well written and engaging account that is beautifully illustrated throughout with full color photography.
An Unlikely Vineyard
Critique: Informed and informative, "Unlikely Fame: Poor People Who Made History" is a fascinating and informative read from beginning to end.
Unlikely Fame: Poor People Who Made History
I think they are hebes and since they are not even in flower, it seems unlikely they could have any pollen.
ASK CAROL
It seems to be a photograph that briefly captures two unlikely worlds colliding.
Beauty and the Beast; Brian Barwick's BBRRUUNncchh SSuunnddaayy Food for thought from sport's top table
Summary: FSA director Andrew Rhodes has said it is "very unlikely anyone will fall ill" from bute traces found in Asda corned beef products.
FSA: 'Very unlikely anyone will fall ill' from bute in Asda