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

See Examples For:

dire straits

But he does stress that the smallest seed of hope is what allows us to maintain our humanity, compassion and desire for companionship, even in the most dire straits.

From Salon ● Aug. 24, 2026

After a long career as a college professor in Camagüey, Maria Antonia Borroto didn’t think she would ever be in such dire straits.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 13, 2026

Canham-Clyne said Chipotle is not yet in dire straits.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 12, 2026

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 ● Dec. 26, 2025

I tell you, if you were in such dire straits as I was, you too would elevate your thoughts.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel