Search
Select the dictionary language
in dire straits
01
a situation with a lot of difficulties
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "in dire straits" and when to use it?
The idiom "in dire straits" has its origins in the nautical world. "Straits" refer to narrow, difficult-to-navigate water passages, and "dire" means extremely serious or urgent. The phrase is used to describe a situation marked by extreme difficulty, danger, or adversity, where someone is facing serious and urgent problems or hardships.
Examples
The hospital was in dire straits after the funding was cut.
