# straits

/ˈstɹeɪts/ (US) · /stɹˈeɪts/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/straits
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. difficult situation

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a very difficult or dangerous situation, especially when you do not have enough money.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Almost always used in the plural form 'straits' and frequently appears in the fixed idiom 'in dire straits'.

### 2. water passage

noun · CEFR B2

a narrow passage of water that connects two larger seas or oceans.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The company is in dire straits after losing its biggest client.
- After the factory closed, many families in the small town found themselves in increasingly difficult financial straits.
- The nation's economy was in such desperate straits that the government was forced to seek an emergency loan from the international community to prevent a total collapse.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.