dire (B2)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈdaɪər/

Definition

Extremely serious or urgent, often involving terrible events or outcomes.

Examples

• The company is in dire financial straits and may have to close.

• We are facing dire consequences if we don't act now.

• The rescue team arrived to find dire conditions at the crash site.

How to Use dire

dire need (collocation)

A very strong and urgent requirement for something. — "The community is in dire need of medical supplies."

dire straits (collocation)

A very difficult or dangerous situation, especially financially. — "The company has been in dire straits since the economic downturn."

dire consequences (collocation)

Extremely serious or unpleasant results. — "Ignoring the warning signs could lead to dire consequences."

Synonyms of dire

Words with a similar meaning to dire:

• terrible
• awful
• dreadful
• catastrophic

Antonyms of dire

Words with the opposite meaning to dire:

• good
• excellent
• wonderful

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