in no circumstances

Never; in no case or situation; irrespective of events or conditions. In no circumstances are you allowed to drive home after you've had more than one drink! I'm sorry for my sudden resignation, but in no circumstances will I work for some sexist manager like him. The defendant has a long history of violent, psychopathic behavior and should be in no circumstances allowed to remain free.

See also: circumstance, no

under no circumstances

At no time; never. Under no circumstances will I allow you to go to a party on a school night.

See also: circumstance, no

under no circumstances

and not under any circumstances

Fig. absolutely never. Andy: Under no circumstances will I ever go back there again! Rachel: Why? What happened? Sue: Can I talk you into serving as a referee again? Mary: Heavens, no! Not under any circumstances!

See also: circumstance, no

in/under no circumstances

used to emphasize that something should never happen or be allowed: Under no circumstances should you lend Paul any money. ♢ Don’t open the door to strangers in any circumstances.

See also: circumstance, no

under no circumstances

In no case; never.

See also: circumstance, no

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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