dire straits

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This picturesque South Asian island, once celebrated for its economic development and high ratings on human development indices, has found itself in dire straits once again.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Though not in dire straits, it isn’t exactly healthy, either.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

Industrial giant Thyssenkrupp's steel-making business, already in dire straits due to fierce Asian competition, said in a statement to AFP that a "permanently higher gas price would have an impact on production costs".

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Dec. 23, 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