Deadliness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deadliness

[ˈdɛdlɪnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

the quality of being deadly

Deadliness refers to the state or quality of being lethal or causing death. It is the characteristic of something that has the potential to end life.

Synonyms

fatality, lethality, mortality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deadliness	Can be used interchangeably with 'deadliness,' though it's a repetition. Refer to the same explanation above. The deadliness of the new virus has caused widespread fear. The deadliness of the weapon makes it a topic of concern for authorities.
lethality	Describes the capacity or ability of something to cause death. Often used in technical or scientific contexts. The lethality of the new chemical compound is under investigation. Military experts are assessing the lethality of the latest weapons systems.
fatality	Refers to the occurrence of death as a result of an accident, disaster, or illness. Often used in statistics and reports. The car accident resulted in three fatalities. The hospital reported an increase in fatalities due to the flu outbreak.
mortality	Refers to the state of being mortal, i.e., the susceptibility to death. Commonly used in discussions about death rates or general human lifespan. The mortality rate among newborns has decreased significantly over the past decade. Mortality is a natural part of the human condition.

Examples of usage

The deadliness of the poison was evident from the rapid deterioration of the victim's health.
The deadliness of the weapon was unmatched, capable of causing severe damage with just one strike.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

extreme danger or risk

Deadliness can also refer to extreme danger or risk, where the situation poses a significant threat to life or well-being.

Synonyms

hazard, peril, threat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deadliness	Use this word to describe the quality of causing death, focusing on the potential to be lethal. The deadliness of the new virus has alarmed healthcare professionals. She spoke about the deadliness of venomous snakes in the region.
hazard	This word is ideal for discussing something that poses a risk or danger, often in a more general sense. It can be used in everyday situations. Slippery floors are a common hazard in the workplace. Please remove any hazards from the walkway to prevent accidents.
peril	Usually used in more dramatic or serious contexts, often referring to danger that is immediate or severe. It suggests a high level of risk. The travelers found themselves in great peril during the storm. The hero's journey was fraught with peril at every turn.
threat	Best used when describing a potential negative event or action that may occur. It implies the possibility of harm or danger. There is a significant threat of cyber attacks on the company. The looming threat of layoffs concerned all the employees.

Examples of usage

The deadliness of the storm forced residents to evacuate the area immediately.
The deadliness of the situation required swift and decisive action to ensure everyone's safety.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Studies show that people's fear response can heighten their perception of danger, linking 'deadliness' to psychological impact.
The idea of 'deadliness' can lead to anxiety in situations perceived as risky, affecting decision-making.
The 'dread risk' theory suggests that the perception of deadliness influences behaviors related to health and safety.

Literature

In literature, themes of 'deadliness' often symbolize moral choices and the consequences of reckless behavior.
Works like Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' explore the deadly consequences of ambition and betrayal.
The portrayal of deadly encounters in Gothic novels emphasizes the tension between life and death.

Science

In biology, the term can refer to the lethality of certain toxins or diseases, illustrating varying levels of danger.
Research in epidemiology classifies diseases based on their 'deadliness', impacting public health responses.
Understanding deadliness in terms of virulence helps develop vaccines and treatment plans for infectious diseases.

Pop Culture

'Deadliness' often features in movies and video games, where characters face grave risks amid thrilling plots.
The concept appears frequently in horror films, where the perception of danger heightens suspense and fear.
In popular songs, 'deadliness' can be metaphorically used to describe the dangers of love or heartbreak, adding emotional depth.

Origin of 'deadliness'

Main points about word origin

The word 'deadliness' originates from the Old English 'dead' which means lifeless or no longer living.
It combines 'dead' with the suffix '-ness' indicating a state or condition, common in many English words.
This term has evolved to encompass not just literal death but also severe danger to life.

The term 'deadliness' originated from the combination of 'deadly' (meaning causing or capable of causing death) and the suffix '-ness' (indicating a state or quality). The concept of deadliness has been prevalent throughout history, particularly in contexts of warfare, disease, and natural disasters, where the potential for death or destruction is a significant concern.

See also: dead, deadbeat, deaden, deadline, deadlock, deadly, deadness, deadpan, undead.