dire

[ˈdaɪər]

dire Definition

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

Synonyms for dire

• terrible
• awful
• dreadful
• grave
• severe

Antonyms for dire

• mild
• favorable
• promising

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.

• dire need

  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.