Cover your bases
/ˈkʌvə jɔː ˈbeɪsɪz/informalUK · US
What does “Cover your bases” mean?
Cover your bases means to prepare for the different things that might happen or need attention
Covering your bases means thinking beyond the most likely outcome. A spare key or a backup venue can prevent a small surprise from ruining a plan.
The phrase can also describe a thorough check before a decision. It does not promise that every possible problem can be prevented.
When do people say it?
Use it when checking a plan, arranging backups or making sure nothing important has been missed.
“We booked an indoor room as well, just to cover our bases in case it rained.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The image is of making sure the bases in baseball are covered. In everyday plans, the bases are the things that need attention.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Cover your bases” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-09-19