Use 'parlous' to describe situations with potential harm or failure.

Dangers Present

'Parlous' can impart a solemn and serious tone to your statement.

Serious Tone

'Parlous' often refers to abstract concepts, not just physical danger.

Not Physical

Use the archaic 'parlous' to comment on something's poor condition or quality.

Describing Quality

Understand 'parlous' for reading historical texts, where it's more common.

Historical Context

'Parlous' in this sense is rare, but can add a classical flair to writing.

Rare Usage

 So even though I don't think that the energy situation will become so parlous that it would affect Putin's decision making, I do think that the West's response does matter on the ground. The war is kind of having radiating economic shock waves around the world now,

War in Ukraine -- and...

 man in parlous and we are going to stay here with these animals for a little while longer and see if anything happens and let's go and see if Taylor's got