in dire straits or need

in dire straits or need

Meaning:
– experience difficult financial conditions or circumstances
– in a very serious, bad circumstance
– in extreme danger or difficulty
– causing or involving great fear or suffering

Examples:
1. The earthquake and the drought left the region in dire straits for a long time.
2. I am totally broke and need help to buy some food for my children. We are in dire straits.
3. After the death of her father, little girl in dire need.
4. Last night everything burned in the factory of a successful business man now he is in dire straits.

Origin:
1560–70;
Latin dīrus worried, ill-fated.