Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* En: a preposition meaning "in" or "at"
* Souffrance: noun meaning "suffering" or "hardship", but in this context, it refers to the state of being "under pressure" or "burdened" by a debt.
Therefore, "en souffrance" literally translates to "in suffering" due to a financial obligation.
Examples:
* Les factures en souffrance: Outstanding invoices.
* Le loyer est en souffrance: The rent is in arrears.
* Un prêt en souffrance: A loan in arrears.
In essence, "en souffrance" implies that a payment is overdue and the situation is causing financial strain.