dire
adj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈdaɪɝ// UK //dˈaɪə// dire
adj. extremely serious, bad, or urgent. You use this to describe a situation where something terrible might happen if things do not change quickly.
adj. characterised by extreme danger, urgency, or poor quality. Often used to describe consequences, warnings, or circumstances that are catastrophic in nature.
The company is in dire need of new investment.
The local hospital is facing a dire shortage of staff after the recent budget cuts.
Climate scientists have issued a dire warning that failing to reduce carbon emissions immediately will lead to irreversible environmental damage within the next decade.
Usage
Commonly used in the set phrase 'in dire straits' or paired with nouns like 'need', 'warning', or 'consequences'.