in 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.
Bye - who has a six-year-old dalmatian, two springer spaniels and a cat - said her family were "financially stable" when they got their pets but a year later were in "dire straits".
From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2026
If you’re not in dire straits financially, keep full ownership of your home.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 29, 2026
Though not in dire straits, it isn’t exactly healthy, either.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 21, 2026
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 ● Feb. 25, 2026
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 "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova
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