difficult situation; adverse circumstances; predicament; trouble; dilemma; distress
苦境に立たされても前を向いた。
Even when placed in a difficult situation, he kept looking forward.
経営不振により会社は苦境に陥っている。
Due to poor management, the company has fallen into a difficult situation.
苦境を乗り越えた経験が彼の強さの原点だ。
His experience of overcoming adversity is the foundation of his strength.