dire

[ˈdaɪər]

dire Definition

  • 1extremely serious or urgent
  • 2causing great fear or suffering
  • 3very bad

Using dire: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dire" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The situation is dire and requires immediate action.

  • Example

    The company is in dire need of financial assistance.

  • Example

    The hurricane caused dire consequences for the coastal towns.

  • Example

    The patient's condition is dire and requires urgent medical attention.

dire Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with dire

  • dire straits

    a very difficult or dangerous situation

    Example

    After losing his job, he found himself in dire straits financially.

  • dire warning

    a warning that something very bad may happen

    Example

    The government issued a dire warning about the potential consequences of the pandemic.

  • a situation where something is urgently required

    Example

    The homeless shelter is in dire need of donations to continue operating.

Origins of dire

from Latin 'dirus', meaning 'fearful'

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Summary: dire in Brief

The term 'dire' [ˈdaɪər] refers to extremely serious or urgent situations that can cause great fear or suffering. It can also describe something that is very bad. Examples include 'The situation is dire and requires immediate action.' and 'The patient's condition is dire and requires urgent medical attention.' 'Dire' is often used in phrases like 'dire straits,' which means a very difficult or dangerous situation.

How do native speakers use this expression?