dire

/ˈdaɪ̯ə(ɹ)/adjective

Extremely serious or bad, often needing urgent action.

Example sentences

“The village is in dire need of clean water.”
“Ignoring the warning could have dire consequences.”
“After the flood, the family's finances were dire.”

Mostly found in a few set phrases: dire need, dire consequences, dire straits. 'Dire warnings' are warnings that something terrible will happen.

Synonyms for dire

grave
desperate
terrible
severe

Related words

disagreeableUnpleasant or unsuitable; not to one's liking.disappointedUnhappy because something you hoped for did not happen.discordA lack of agreement or harmony between people or things.discordantClashing rather than fitting together in harmony or agreement.discreditDamage done to the reputation of a person, family, or institution, or someone or something that causes such damage.deviousUsing sneaky or dishonest methods instead of being open and truthful.