1 the set of conditions that exist at a particular time in a particular place
If the situation had been different, their plan might have succeeded.
concern about the current situation south of the border
as/if/when the situation arises (=when it happens): We’ll have to deal with overcrowding as the situation arises.
an economic/political/financial situation: The country is facing a very difficult economic situation.
social situation (=any event where you talk to or meet a lot of people): Social situations always make me nervous.
someone’s situation (=the conditions that affect their life at a particular time): What prospects are there for a person in his situation?
Synonyms and related words