life-and-death

[lahyf-uhn-deth] / ˈlaɪf ənˈdɛθ /

ADJECTIVE

extremely important

Synonyms

WEAK

all-important consequential critical crucial determining earth-shaking earth-shattering essential imperative important indispensable life-or-death meaningful of vital importance paramount pivotal serious significant urgent vital vitally important

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She added: “I love the feel of being under the gun, under pressure. It’s not like a life-and-death situation, but you know that adrenaline that you get…”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

Not having money is a life-and-death issue in America.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

"Militaries adopt AI to speed up processes such as target identification. But delegating life-and-death decisions to machines poses profound ethical and human rights risks," said Patrick Wilcken of Amnesty International.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

The context involves a simple and crucial choice — between excessive patience and an urgency grounded in life-and-death human realities.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

“Kinda. It’s like the life-and-death cycle,” said Aru.

From "Aru Shah and the End of Time" by Roshani Chokshi

life-and-death

Example Sentences

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