Word
straits
US/ˈstɹeɪts/
UK/stɹˈeɪts/
Definitions
01difficult situation
n. a very difficult or dangerous situation, especially when you do not have enough money.
n. a state of extreme difficulty, distress, or need. Usually plural and often modified by 'dire'.
“The company was in dire straits after losing its biggest customer.”
“Following the sudden collapse of the regional bank, many local businesses found themselves in desperate straits, unable to meet their payroll obligations.”
Formal
Usage
Almost always used in the plural form 'straits' and frequently appears in the fixed idiom 'in dire straits'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02water passage
n. a narrow passage of water that connects two larger seas or oceans.
n. a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water. While 'strait' is the singular form, the plural 'straits' is frequently used in geographical names.
“The ship sailed through the straits to reach the open ocean.”
“The strategic importance of the straits cannot be overstated, as they serve as the primary maritime gateway for international oil shipments.”
Usage
Can be used as a common noun or as part of a proper geographical name like the Straits of Gibraltar.
Real-World Examples
“Experts said that Monday’s incident on the Danish straits reflects increasing tensions between Denmark and Russia that is slowly moving towards Cold War levels.” “The DJ’s record label first sponsored their shirts in the late 90s, back when the team’s financial straits had left them flirting with extinction, and Tony Bloom’s billions were still waiting to be won.” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/straits