Mortally: meaning, definitions and examples

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mortally

 

[ˈmɔːtəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

adverb

In a manner that causes death; fatally.

Synonyms

deadly, fatally, lethally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mortally

This word is often used in formal or dramatic contexts to describe something that causes or involves death, particularly in phrases like 'mortally wounded' to suggest a severe, life-threatening injury.

  • He was mortally wounded in the battle and could not be saved.
  • The hero faced a mortally dangerous foe.
fatally

Typically used in more formal contexts to describe something that leads to death, such as accidents or diseases. It often appears in news reports or medical discussions.

  • She was fatally injured in a car crash.
  • The disease can fatally affect the elderly.
deadly

This word is commonly used to describe something extremely dangerous or likely to cause death. It can be used in both informal and formal settings.

  • The snake's venom is deadly to humans.
  • He gave her a deadly look, full of hatred.
lethally

This term is often used to emphasize the deadly potential of something, particularly in legal or military contexts. It suggests the ability or intention to kill.

  • The gas was lethally toxic.
  • Lethally armed guards ensured no one escaped.

Examples of usage

  • She was mortally wounded in the battle.
  • The poison acted mortally on the victim.
Context #2 | Adverb

adverb

To a very great degree; extremely.

Synonyms

exceedingly, extremely, intensely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mortally

Use this word when referring to something that is life-threatening or can cause death. It often has a dramatic or serious tone.

  • He was mortally wounded in the battle.
  • She felt mortally afraid at that moment.
extremely

This is a versatile and commonly used word to emphasize a high degree of something, suitable for both informal and formal contexts.

  • It was an extremely hot day.
  • He was extremely tired after the trip.
intensely

This word is used to describe a very strong feeling or reaction. It can be either positive or negative and is often used when emotions or actions are very powerful.

  • She stared at him intensely.
  • The movie was intensely gripping.
exceedingly

This word is used to emphasize an extreme degree of something, generally in a formal or written context. It doesn't usually carry any negative connotations.

  • The cake was exceedingly delicious.
  • She was exceedingly pleased with the results.

Examples of usage

  • He was mortally afraid of spiders.
  • She was mortally embarrassed by the mistake.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'mortalitas', which means 'human nature' or 'death'.
  • In the Middle Ages, the term was used to describe the state of living and dying, reflecting the period's focus on life after death.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have long discussed the concept of mortality, particularly how awareness of one's own mortal nature can influence decision-making and behavior.
  • The question of whether we are defined more by our mortal experiences or by our actions during our lifespan is a significant philosophical debate.

Literature

  • In many literary works, mortality serves as a central theme, highlighting the fleeting nature of life, such as in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'.
  • Famous poetry often reflects on mortality, prompting readers to appreciate life, as seen in John Keats's 'Ode to a Nightingale'.

Science

  • Studies on mortality rates help scientists understand health trends and causes of death in populations.
  • Research in gerontology examines the biological processes of aging and the ways to potentially extend quality of life.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures celebrate and remember the deceased uniquely, often reflecting their views on mortality.
  • In some societies, acknowledging mortality through rituals helps people cope with loss and grief.

Translations

Translations of the word "mortally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mortalmente

🇮🇳 मौत के कारण

🇩🇪 tödlich

🇮🇩 fatal

🇺🇦 смертельно

🇵🇱 śmiertelnie

🇯🇵 致命的に (ちめいてきに)

🇫🇷 mortellement

🇪🇸 mortalmente

🇹🇷 ölümcül

🇰🇷 치명적으로 (致命的으로)

🇸🇦 بشكل مميت

🇨🇿 smrtelně

🇸🇰 smrteľne

🇨🇳 致命地 (zhìmìng de)

🇸🇮 smrtno

🇮🇸 banvænt

🇰🇿 өлімге алып келетіндей

🇬🇪 სასიკვდილოდ

🇦🇿 ölümcül

🇲🇽 mortalmente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,037, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.