could be worse
A somewhat positive response to a question about one's wellbeing (such as "How are you?"). A: "How are you?" B: "Not too bad—things could be worse."
(Things) could be worse
and (I) could be worse. aresponse to a greeting meaning "My state is not as bad as it might be." (Not necessarily a direct answer.) John: How are you, Fred? Fred: Things could be worse. And you? John: Okay, I guess. Bob: Hi, Bob! What's happening? Bob: I could be worse. What's new with you?