dire straits

American  

[dahyuhr streyts] / ˈdaɪər ˈstreɪts /

plural noun

1. very difficult circumstances.

   With inflation so high, I've been talking to many more people lately who are in dire straits.

   Once facing dire straits, the theater has bounced back since producing this hit show.

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Etymology

Origin of dire straits

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Aston Martin are in such dire straits that there is a significant question mark about which of the two will be slowest in Melbourne.

From BBC

Facing a tricky chase of 165 against Pakistan at the Pallekele stadium in Kandy, England could have been in dire straits when they lost Phil Salt first ball of the innings.

From Barron's

He wasn’t sure if it was because he was in dire straits or because he was beginning to understand that the magic was there for him.

From Literature

From 91-9, England were in dire straits but, just as they had with the ball, Atkinson and Tongue combined with the bat.

From BBC

Some people are in more dire straits financially than others, of course, but everyone needs support from time to time.

From MarketWatch