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.

While trying to use his bear spray canister, he sustained “significant but not life-threatening injuries to his chest and left arm,” according to officials.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

An in-person doctor’s visit is the only reliable way to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy—a life-threatening condition in which an embryo implants outside the uterus.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Eighteen percent reported that it led to a life-threatening event or required an intervention to prevent permanent harm.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 22, 2026

She remains in a life-threatening condition in hospital, the Metropolitan Police said on Tuesday morning.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

But my illnesses have been minor and not life-threatening.

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan