Mortality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’€
Add to dictionary

mortality

[mษ”หrหˆtalษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

rate of

The state of being subject to death; death as a subject for contemplation or depiction; the state of being mortal.

Synonyms

death rate, fatality rate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mortality

Use this term when talking about the concept of death, often in a broader philosophical or scientific context. It refers to the state of being mortal and susceptible to death.

  • The novel explores the theme of mortality and the human desire for immortality.
  • Scientists are studying the factors that influence mortality in different species.
death rate

This phrase is commonly used in statistical or demographic contexts to describe the number of deaths in a specific population over a period of time, usually per 1,000 or 100,000 individuals.

  • The death rate in the region has decreased significantly over the past decade.
  • Public health initiatives aim to lower the death rate from preventable diseases.
fatality rate

Typically employed in medical, safety, or disaster-related contexts, it describes the proportion of deaths out of the total number of cases or incidents. Often used to assess the deadliness of diseases or accidents.

  • The fatality rate of the new virus has alarmed public health officials.
  • Improved safety measures have helped reduce the fatality rate in mining accidents.

Examples of usage

  • High mortality rates are often associated with poverty and lack of access to healthcare.
  • Mortality is a common theme in art and literature, representing the impermanence of life.
Context #2 | Noun

cause of

The quality or state of being mortal; susceptibility to death.

Synonyms

mortal nature, mortality rate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mortality

Used frequently in discussions about death, the inevitability of death, or in philosophical contexts. Also common in medical, demographic, or statistical discussions about death rates.

  • Philosophers often reflect on human mortality.
  • The invention significantly reduced infant mortality.
mortal nature

Typically used in discussions emphasizing the human condition and our inherent vulnerability to death.

  • Our mortal nature reminds us of our limits.
  • The tale is a reminder of man's mortal nature.
mortality rate

Primarily used in medical, public health, or demographic discussions to describe the frequency of deaths in a specific population, typically within a specific timeframe.

  • The mortality rate for heart disease has been declining.
  • High pollution levels can increase the mortality rate.

Examples of usage

  • The mortality of humans is a fundamental aspect of our existence.
  • The mortality of all living beings is a universal truth.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Many philosophical discussions focus on mortality, exploring the meaning of life and what it means to accept death.
  • Existentialist thinkers argue that acknowledging mortality can lead to a more meaningful life, encouraging individuals to make the most of their time.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied beliefs about what happens after death, influencing how they view mortality.
  • In some cultures, festivals like Dรญa de los Muertos celebrate and honor the dead, reflecting a unique take on mortality.

Science

  • In public health, mortality rates are crucial for understanding the health status of populations, often guiding policies and interventions.
  • With advancements in medicine, many diseases that were once fatal have seen significant reductions in mortality rates.

Literature

  • Mortality is a common theme in literature, with authors like Shakespeare, Tolstoy, and Hemingway examining death in their works.
  • Many poems and stories explore the fleeting nature of life, prompting readers to reflect on their own existence and values.

Origin of 'mortality'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'mortalitas', which means 'the quality of being mortal' or 'the state of being subject to death'.
  • It has roots in 'mors', the Latin word for 'death', reflecting the word's focus on life and its end.

The word 'mortality' originated from the Latin word 'mortalitas', which means 'subject to death'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to the state of being subject to death. The concept of mortality has been a central theme in philosophy, religion, and literature, reflecting on the transient nature of human life and the inevitability of death.


See also: mortally.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,216, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.