When it comes to describing someone or something that is in a serious state, there are many potential synonyms that one could use. For example, you might describe someone as being critically ill, gravely injured, or in a dire condition. Other potential synonyms might include words like severe, acute, or even life-threatening. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the specifics of the situation at hand, as well as the tone and context of the language being used. However, with a little bit of creativity and attention to detail, it is possible to find just the right word to convey the seriousness of a particular situation.