A budget crunch noun phrase
Used to indicate a situation in which there is not enough money in the budget
Many businesses are in a real budget crunch due to the prolonged Covid pandemic.
We can't buy modern machinery due to the budget crunch.
The budget crunch hinders the company from hiring more workers.
Used to describe a situation when people say nothing and feel worried, embarrassed or uncomfortable
A heavy silence fell upon the room after Jane refused John's proposal.