in dire shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in dire shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that is extremely bad or serious. Example: "After the storm, the town was left in dire shape, with many homes destroyed and roads impassable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Wagner said they were in "dire shape".

The New York Times - Sports

Deepwells was in dire shape as well, Mr. Martin said.

The New York Times

But not all of those banks are in dire shape.

The New York Times

Most of China's 100-odd securities firms are in dire shape.

The Economist

Not everyone who bought Equity Office buildings is in dire shape.

The New York Times

Mr. Tennyson said that years of deferred work had left the church in dire shape.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

As the trend toward organic food consumption slows after years of explosive growth, no sector is in direr shape than the $1.3 billion organic milk industry.

The New York Times

The Wage and Hour Division concluded that the employer owed her $4,500, but the investigator nonetheless dropped the case after the employer asserted in August 2006 that it was in such dire shape that it did not have any money to pay back wages.

The New York Times

She added, however, that she did not think H.P. was in as dire shape as I.B.M. was in 1993, when it lost more than $15 billion in three years.

The New York Times - Tech

"He was in as dire shape as you can ever have anybody in".

The New York Times

Some of the evacuees are in particularly dire shape.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in dire shape", ensure the context clearly establishes what is suffering or failing. For example, specify whether it's a company, economy, or individual's health.

Common error

Avoid using "in dire shape" for minor inconveniences or temporary setbacks. This phrase should be reserved for situations with significant negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in dire shape" functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It describes the state or condition of a noun, indicating that something is in a severely negative or critical state. Examples from Ludwig show it modifying nouns like "economy", "finances", and "horses".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in dire shape" is a commonly used expression to describe something in a severe or critical condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, signaling its use in reporting on serious situations. When employing this phrase, ensure that your writing provides clear context about what is suffering and that the severity aligns with the phrase's implications. Alternatives such as "in critical condition" or "in a precarious situation" can also be considered depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a critical state

Focuses on the severity of the condition or situation.

in a precarious situation

Highlights the instability and risk associated with the situation.

in a desperate condition

Emphasizes the urgency and lack of viable options.

in a bad way

A more informal way to express a similar sentiment.

in a sorry state

Highlights the regrettable or unfortunate nature of the situation.

in a perilous situation

Implies immediate danger or risk.

facing a crisis

Focuses on the presence of a critical and challenging event.

in deep trouble

A common idiom expressing significant problems.

on the brink of disaster

Suggests that failure or catastrophe is imminent.

experiencing extreme hardship

Highlights the severe difficulties being faced.

FAQs

How can I use "in dire shape" in a sentence?

You can use "in dire shape" to describe something facing severe trouble or difficulty. For example: "The company's finances were "in dire shape" after the scandal."

What does it mean for something to be "in dire shape"?

When something is "in dire shape", it means that it is in a very bad or critical condition. It suggests a situation of extreme difficulty and potential failure.

Which is more appropriate, "in dire shape" or "in desperate shape"?

"In dire shape" typically refers to a condition of severe difficulty or disrepair, while "in desperate shape" often implies a sense of urgency and a lack of viable options. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Are there any formal alternatives to "in dire shape"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "in critical condition" or "in a precarious situation". These options are suitable for professional or academic writing.