Matter of life and death Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A situation or problem that is extremely important, often meaning someone could live or die depending on what happens.
Usage & Nuances
Used in both literal emergencies and dramatic exaggerations in non-serious situations. Common collocations: 'treat it as a matter of life and death', 'not a matter of life and death.' Often used for emphasis, not just actual danger.
Example Sentences
This is a matter of life and death—call the ambulance now!
basic
For her, passing the exam felt like a matter of life and death.
basic
Don't worry, it's not a matter of life and death if we're late.
basic
I told him fixing his phone ASAP wasn't a matter of life and death.
natural
Getting home before curfew felt like a matter of life and death to my teenager.
natural
Is this really a matter of life and death, or can it wait until tomorrow?
natural