life-threatening

[lahyf-thret-ning, -thret-n-ing] / ˈlaɪfˌθrɛt nɪŋ, -ˌθrɛt n ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

very dangerous

Synonyms

STRONGEST

deadly lethal mortal serious severe

WEAK

capital critical hazardous threatening touch and go unsafe

Antonyms

STRONGEST

harmless invigorating

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.

Such reactions can range from responses with “no clinical manifestations” to irritating rashes to life-threatening conditions such as anaphylactic shock, which constricts breathing and impairs motor function.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Police said the three who managed to escape the River Nene were taken to hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

As drug prices soared, many were left without the means to pay for medications for common and life-threatening conditions.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 10, 2026

His son, Sebastien Lai, said the "draconian prison sentence is devastating for our family and life-threatening for my father".

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

That is, perhaps, why they find it difficult to survive in life-threatening situations.

From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth