strait
Translation
strait, channel, predicament
Examples
The Strait of Gibraltar separates Europe and Africa.
The Strait of Gibraltar separates Europe and Africa.
The company is in dire financial straits.
The company is in dire financial straits.
Grammar Patterns
the Strait of ((place)) a narrow passage of water connecting two seas The Strait of Gibraltar is famous.
in dire/financial straits in a very difficult situation The company is in dire financial straits.
Similar Words
Synonyms: channel, sound (geography); predicament, plight (difficulty). Do not confuse with 'straight'.
Etymology
From Old French 'estreit' meaning 'narrow', from Latin 'strictus'. It shares a root with 'strict' and 'strain'.
Memory Tips
A 'strait' is a narrow passage of water. Think of it as a 'strict' or restricted channel. This idea of restriction also applies to being in difficult 'straits'.