как бы не

Conjunction

 * 1) that; lest

Usage notes

 * The main clause needs a meaning that pertains to concern, fear, horror, or worrying. It is often used with the verb or, but it is also used with nouns such as , , , , , etc..
 * The main verb in a subordinate clause that starts with как бы не has a perfective aspect. And as with , the main verb takes the past tense form when it is finite.
 * If the main clause and the subordinate clause that starts with как бы не have the same subject, then the subordinate clause can have its main verb as an infinitive without a subject (as the missing subject is already implied in the subject of the main clause). For example:
 * Моя коллега беспокоилась, как бы она не встретила своего менеджера. (My colleague was worried that she would run into her manager.)
 * Моя коллега беспокоилась, как бы не встретить своего менеджера. (My colleague was worried about running into her manager.)


 * The main clause can be implied by omitting it, especially when it is used in a colloquial setting. For example:
 * Я боюсь, как бы не пошёл дождь. (I'm worried that it's going to rain.)
 * Как бы не пошёл дождь. ((I'm worried) that it's going to rain.)