in dire straits

Etymology:

• "in dire straits" originates from a nautical term that describes perilous and narrow waterways that link two larger bodies of water e.g. the Strait of Gibraltar. Sailors required to traverse these treacherous passages encountered numerous dangers, including rocks, reefs, strong currents, unpredictable winds, and even hostile forces. A single misstep could lead to catastrophic consequences for these seafarers. The phrase likely emerged as a metaphor to describe a situation that is as perilous and precarious as navigating such conditions.