Lethal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lethal
[ˈliː.θəl ]
Definitions
weapon
Capable of causing death; fatal.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lethal |
Use when describing something that can cause death or is capable of causing death. Typically used in a more clinical or formal context.
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| fatal |
Best used when describing something that has caused death or has the potential to cause death. Often used in medical or serious contexts.
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| deadly |
Best used when describing something extremely dangerous or likely to cause death. It can be used in everyday language as well as in more dramatic contexts.
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| mortal |
Generally used to describe something that can cause death in a more literary or poetic sense. Sometimes used to describe human vulnerabilities.
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Examples of usage
- The poison was lethal and could kill within minutes.
- The gunshot wound proved to be lethal.
impact
Extremely harmful or destructive.
Synonyms
catastrophic, devastating, ruinous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lethal |
Used when something can cause death or is extremely dangerous.
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| devastating |
Best used to describe something that causes a lot of emotional pain, destruction, or serious damage.
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| catastrophic |
Appropriate for describing major disasters or events that cause great suffering or damage.
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| ruinous |
Suitable for describing something that leads to severe financial loss or physical destruction. Often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The hurricane had a lethal impact on the coastal region.
- The decision had a lethal effect on the company.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Certain substances, like poisons, can be classified as lethal when even a small amount can lead to death.
- In medicine, a 'lethal dose' refers to the amount of a drug or poison that can kill a person.
- Understanding what is lethal is crucial in safety, for example, in wildlife conservation to protect endangered species from harmful substances.
Literature
- Many thrillers and horror novels explore themes of lethality, using it as a central element to create suspense.
- In Shakespeare's time, themes surrounding lethal actions often reflected societal views on morality and justice.
- The lethal consequences of revenge are a frequent topic in classic literary works, emphasizing the dire effects of vengeance.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals may be drawn to lethal experiences, like extreme sports, due to an adrenaline rush.
- Fear of lethal outcomes can trigger various psychological responses, such as heightened anxiety or caution.
- Understanding lethality risks can help prevent harmful behaviors and promote a more cautious approach to risky activities.
Pop Culture
- The concept of lethal weapons features prominently in action movies, where characters face various deadly situations.
- Video games often include characters with lethal capabilities, emphasizing strategy and survival.
- In music, some songs use the word 'lethal' to describe powerful and impactful relationships or situations.
Origin of 'lethal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'letalis,' which means 'of death' or 'deadly.'
- It was first used in English in the late 14th century to describe things that cause death.
- Its roots are related to the word 'lete,' an Old English term meaning 'death.'
The word 'lethal' originated from the Latin word 'letalis' meaning 'deadly' or 'fatal'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something capable of causing death. Over time, 'lethal' has come to be associated with extreme harm or destructiveness in addition to its original meaning of causing death.