Meaning of the word "it could have been worse" in English

What does "it could have been worse" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

it could have been worse

US /ɪt kʊd hæv bɪn wɜrs/
UK /ɪt kʊd hæv bɪn wɜrs/
"it could have been worse" picture

Phrase

used to say that a bad situation is not as bad as it might have been

Example:
I lost my wallet, but it could have been worse; at least I still have my phone.
The car broke down on the highway, but it could have been worse, we weren't far from a service station.