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Bedrängnis

distress, straits, predicament

noun be-DRENG-nis Rare
Mind & Emotions Emotions

Also means

oppressive pressure from circumstances

Usage Note

Bedrängnis often appears in elevated or biblical register: in Bedrängnis geraten (to find oneself in dire straits). It stresses external pressure that causes inner anguish, unlike the more psychological Not or Notlage.

Examples

"In seiner Bedrängnis wandte er sich an seine alte Freundin."

Natural Translation

In his distress he turned to his old friend.

Literal Translation

In his distress he turned himself to his old friend.

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