Life threatening Meaning and Definition
Life threatening
Pronunciation
/ˈlaɪf ˈθrɛtənɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A situation or condition that could result in serious bodily harm or death, requiring immediate medical attention.
Examples
- The doctor warned that the patient’s condition was life-threatening and required emergency surgery.
- The storm caused widespread destruction and left thousands of people facing life-threatening situations.
Etymology
The word “life-threatening” originates from the 16th-century phrase “a life for life”, implying a situation that could mean the difference between life and death.
Usage Notes
When using the word “life-threatening”, it is essential to provide clear and concise explanations of the situation to avoid confusion or miscommunication.
Cultural References
The word “life-threatening” has been featured in various TV shows, movies, and literature, often highlighting the gravity of a situation.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Close to death”
- “On the brink of disaster”
Related Words or Phrases
- Critical
- Emergency
- Urgent
Collocations
- “life-threatening situation”
- “life-threatening condition”
Frequency of Use
The word “life-threatening” is commonly used in medical and emergency contexts, as well as in everyday conversations to describe situations that require immediate attention.
Common Misspellings
- Life threatning
- Life threating