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.

Leo has denounced the race for AI in the military field, saying that "delegating decisions concerning the life and death of human beings to machines" is a "destructive spiral".

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

“With that action of stepping on the fumi-e, Rodrigues is basically embracing the mystery of life and death, which is what Jesus is,” says Mr. Scorsese.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

“It’s a super powerful thing involving life and death, the planet, the entire environment, love and hate,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

Ethical issues, such as those around life and death, are conventionally seen as matters for the consciences of individual MPs, so the government does not formally give a position.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

In the case of the French curés, the crucial story was that of Christ’s life and death as told by the Catholic Church.

From "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari

life-and-death

Example Sentences

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