Fatal

Definition

Fatal refers to causing death or having extremely severe consequences.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfeɪtəl/
• Respelling: FAY-tuhl (with "FAY" as in "day" and "tuhl" as in "puzzle")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfeɪtəl/
• Respelling: FAY-tuhl (with "FAY" as in "day" and "tuhl" as in "puzzle")

In both dialects, "fatal" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FAY." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FAY-tuhl."

Etymology

The word "fatal" originates from the Latin word "fatalis," which means "destined" or "ordained by fate." This is derived from "fatum," meaning "fate" or "that which has been spoken." The term entered the English language in the late 14th century, retaining its association with death and inevitable outcomes.

Derivatives

• Fatality (noun)
• Fatalism (noun)
• Fatalist (noun)
• Fatally (adverb)
• Fatalistic (adjective)

Synonyms

• Lethal
• Deadly
• Mortal

Antonyms

• Harmless
• Benign
• Safe

Usage

"Fatal" is commonly used in contexts related to accidents, diseases, injuries, and other events that result in death. It can also describe errors or decisions that lead to unavoidable failure or disaster.

Related Terms

• Death: The action or fact of dying or being killed.
• Mortality: The state of being subject to death.
• Danger: The possibility of suffering harm or injury.

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Deadly: Refers to something that directly leads to death, such as a fatal injury, accident, or disease.
  • Example: The car crash resulted in several fatal injuries.

• Lethal: Describes something that is deadly or capable of causing death.
  • Example: The venom of the snake was fatal if not treated immediately.

• Catastrophic: Indicates a mistake, decision, or flaw that leads to an unavoidable and disastrous outcome.
  • Example: The company made a fatal error by ignoring the early signs of financial trouble.

• Irreversible: Refers to an outcome that cannot be undone, often with severe consequences.
  • Example: The patient's condition took a fatal turn, and doctors were unable to save them.