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

Her daughter was taken to hospital with non life-threatening injuries and was discharged by the following day.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 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

The Commissioner also said Dr. Prasad has never “championed” randomized trials for life-threatening diseases.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 7, 2026

Between the two of us, Bobby Gene and I had been in our share of fights around the playground, but nothing life-threatening.

From "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon