fatal
word
Definition
Causing death, or leading to complete failure or very serious harm. It can describe a deadly injury or illness, and also a mistake or weakness that ruins a plan or situation.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in formal or serious contexts: 'a fatal accident', 'a fatal disease', 'a fatal error'. In everyday speech, it can sound dramatic. Don't confuse it with 'deadly': 'fatal' often emphasizes the result (death or ruin), while 'deadly' can emphasize danger. Common collocations include 'fatal injury', 'fatal flaw', and 'prove fatal'.
Example Sentences
The crash was fatal for two people.
basic
The doctor said the wound was fatal.
basic
A fatal mistake ended the mission.
basic
Ignoring that warning could be fatal.
natural
Their plan had one fatal flaw from the start.
natural
In this heat, walking for hours without water can be fatal.
natural