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.

Not having money is a life-and-death issue in America.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

"Militaries adopt AI to speed up processes such as target identification. But delegating life-and-death decisions to machines poses profound ethical and human rights risks," said Patrick Wilcken of Amnesty International.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

Similar to law enforcement, fire departments are paramilitary organizations handling fast-moving, life-and-death emergencies where there’s often no time for debate.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

The context involves a simple and crucial choice — between excessive patience and an urgency grounded in life-and-death human realities.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

Maybe that was true; or maybe it was more a matter of needing to have strict control over the behavior of those who held life-and-death power over other men.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover

life-and-death

Example Sentences

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