Origin of the Phrase "What Could Possibly Go Wrong"

Introduction

The phrase "What could possibly go wrong?" is a quintessential expression that encapsulates the fear of potential negative outcomes, often employed to anticipate disaster or misfortune in everyday situations. This article delves into the origins of the phrase, exploring its earliest literary uses and the context in which it was first introduced to the English language.

Earliest Recordings of the Phrase

The on-line Site English Language Usage provides a fascinating insight into the origins of "What could possibly go wrong?" citing the earliest known usage of the phrase in a premonitory sense. The evidence points to a dialogue found on pages 88-9 of Matilda Mary Pollard's book "Cora: Three Years of a Girl’s Life," which was not printed but was dated by a Bodleian Library stamp to the month of December 1882.

In the dialogue, one character states:

“What could possibly go wrong in a flourishing concern like the Brixleigh Bank? My dear, you are too fond of conjuring up imaginary evils.”

This dialogue not only introduces the phrase but also provides context, suggesting it was used to express a sense of pessimism or an unwarranted fear of impending misfortune. It is interesting to note that the phrase was used in a fictional context, indicating its popularity and potential for capturing human fears and anxieties.

The Context and Significance

The quote from Matilda Mary Pollard's novel not only provides the earliest known use of the phrase in a premonitory sense but also hints at the broader context of the era. The period around the 1880s was a time of rapid industrialization and economic growth, but also of significant social and political upheaval. The fear of misfortune or disaster was likely a common theme in literature and everyday discourse, reflecting the uncertainties and anxieties of the time.

The character expressing this concern is advising another to curb their pessimistic outlook, emphasizing that while it is natural to be cautious, excessive fear can lead to irrational thinking and decisions. This cautionary tone underscores the phrase's enduring relevance and its ability to capture the human tendency to imagine the worst-case scenarios.

Evolution and Usage of the Phrase

Following the 1882 usage, the phrase became more common in everyday language and literature. It reached a popular peak in the 20th century, often used to express a general sense of pessimism or the fear of the unforeseeable. In modern times, the phrase is frequently used in situations involving complex problems or major initiatives, where the risk of failure is high.

For instance, in business and technology, the phrase is often used to highlight the complexity of projects and the potential for unforeseen technical or market issues. Similarly, in media and popular culture, it is a common trope in storylines, where characters often exaggerate the potential problems in any given situation.

The phrase has also become a meme, often used in satire and humor to highlight the folly of overthinking or worrying about unlikeliest of scenarios. Its enduring popularity in both formal and informal contexts speaks to its universality and the universal human trait of being cautious and wary of potential mishaps.

Conclusion

The phrase "What could possibly go wrong?" has its roots in a 19th-century dialogue from "Cora: Three Years of a Girl’s Life" by Matilda Mary Pollard. While not officially printed, the Bodleian Library's stamp on the manuscript dates it to December 1882, providing a clear and significant early example of the phrase in use. This early usage not only offers a glimpse into the linguistic evolution of the expression but also provides context for its continued relevance and usage in modern times.

The phrase encapsulates the human instinct to anticipate the worst, a behavior that has been encoded in our language for over a century and a half. Its evolution from a literary device to a common colloquial expression underscores the enduring nature of our collective fear of misfortune and the human tendency to worry about worst-case scenarios.