View synonyms for

life-and-death

[lahyf-uhn-deth]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

ending with the death or possible death of one of the participants; crucially important.
The cobra was engaged in a life-and-death struggle with the mongoose.

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of life-and-death¹

First recorded in 1680–90

Discover More

Idioms and Phrases

see matter of life and death.

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

It said the diversity of opinion within the board "is not unlike the politics of Israel itself, whose rambunctious democratic culture sees a fierce exchange of views about these excruciating life-and-death issues".

From

It’s actually a reflection of a disturbing failure: Our government does not properly alert people about disasters, with life-and-death consequences.

From

There’s nothing like a life-and-death situation turning out “life” to moisten one’s eyes, especially if you or a loved one has spent any time in the medical system, or feared the possibility.

From

If we are gamifying life-and-death issues, it could really negatively influence culture and society in a way we don’t like.”

From

So you have an awareness how to sort of navigate potential life-and-death situations.

From

life life annuity

Browse