life-threatening
Americanadjective
Explanation
Something life-threatening is seriously dangerous, and it might even result in death. If someone has a life-threatening illness, it's severe enough that they may need to be hospitalized. You can reassure your mom about the injuries you got when you were hiking up a mountain by saying, "Don't worry, my sprained ankle isn't life-threatening." In other words, it's not going to kill you. Things that are more likely to be life-threatening include cancer, bad head injuries, and run-ins with grizzly bears — they can indeed threaten your life.
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.
The bacteria produce toxins that can trigger dangerous and sometimes life-threatening inflammation in the intestines.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 20, 2026
On Monday, Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said the officer's injuries were "not life-threatening - it's most likely to be life-altering".
From BBC ● Oct. 19, 2026
These waves, combined with an incoming long-period southerly swell, will cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 11, 2026
Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Fla., Friday night, bringing heavy rains, damaging winds and the possibility of life-threatening flooding to the region.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 10, 2026
It was not life-threatening, as the rope-assisted passage across the cliff face had been.
From "Son" by Lois Lowry
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