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Definitions

life-and-death

[lahyf-uhn-deth] / ˈlaɪf ənˈdɛθ /
ADJECTIVE
extremely important
Synonyms
WEAK
all-important consequential critical crucial determining earth-shaking earth-shattering essential imperative important indispensable life-or-death meaningful of vital importance paramount pivotal serious significant urgent vital vitally important

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jess Asato, another Labour critic of the legislation, said "a bill like this with such profound life-and-death impacts... must not be forced through without the scrutiny it deserves".

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

Mr. Braude is suitably critical of his subject for her sometimes glib approach to life-and-death matters, and he pegs her appeal as “delivering hard news as if it was light gossip.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

There’s nothing like a life-and-death situation turning out “life” to moisten one’s eyes, especially if you or a loved one has spent any time in the medical system, or feared the possibility.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2025

For millions of Americans in the Southwest, the extreme heat from climate change is a literal life-and-death matter.

From Salon • Nov. 3, 2024

This was a life-and-death matter, though, and no moment to worry about being laughed at.

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling