Fatal: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'fatal' to describe something that causes death or has very serious consequences, often in a formal or medical context.

• The car accident was fatal, resulting in three deaths.
• A fatal error in the system led to its complete shutdown.

Use 'deadly' to describe something extremely dangerous and likely to cause death. It can refer to weapons, diseases, or situations.

• The snake's venom is deadly to humans.
• They were involved in a deadly confrontation.

Use 'lethal' to describe something designed to cause death or that is very capable of causing death. Often used in military, legal, or medical contexts.

• The officer used lethal force to subdue the suspect.
• Certain chemicals can be lethal in small doses.

Use 'mortal' to emphasize the fact that someone is human and can die, often used in literature, philosophy, or dramatic contexts.

• He received a mortal wound in battle.
• All humans are mortal and must face death someday.

Use this word when referring to something that causes death or is deadly. It can also be used to describe something that leads to failure.

• The crash was fatal for the driver
• Making the wrong decision in this situation can have fatal consequences

Use this word to describe an event or situation that has very negative outcomes, often causing significant damage or hardship.

• The storm's impact on the crops was disastrous
• The new policy turned out to be disastrous for small businesses

This word is appropriate for describing events that cause widespread damage or chaos. It implies extreme devastation that affects many people or things.

• The earthquake had catastrophic effects on the city
• A catastrophic failure in the system led to a complete shutdown

This word is used to describe something that causes great financial loss or destruction. It often implies long-term negative effects.

• The lawsuit had ruinous effects on the company's finances
• Engaging in such risky investments could lead to ruinous outcomes

Used when referring to something that causes death or leads to a very bad and irreversible outcome.

• The accident was fatal, and unfortunately, no one survived.
• Doctors identified a fatal error in the patient's treatment.

Often used to describe something very important or crucial that can significantly affect the outcome of a situation; also used in a medical context to indicate someone in a serious condition.

• The patient's condition is critical and requires immediate attention.
• This is a critical moment in the negotiations.

Refers to something that settles an issue undebatably or determines the final outcome of a situation, often in a positive context.

• Her decisive actions helped avert a major crisis.
• The team made a decisive goal in the final minutes of the game.

Describes something of central importance that has a significant impact on the direction or outcome of an event or situation.

• The discovery was pivotal in advancing scientific research.
• This meeting could be pivotal for the future of the company.