What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fatal
Example
The car accident was fatal for all passengers. [fatal: adjective]
Example
The patient's condition was fatal, and there was nothing the doctors could do. [fatal: adjective]
Example
The company's decision to cut corners proved fatal to their reputation. [fatal: adjective]
lethal
Example
The snake's venom is lethal and can kill within minutes. [lethal: adjective]
Example
The gas leak was lethal, and the entire neighborhood had to be evacuated. [lethal: adjective]
Example
The virus is highly lethal and has claimed many lives. [lethal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fatal is more common than lethal in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts. Lethal is more commonly used in medical or scientific contexts, or when describing dangerous substances or weapons.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fatal and lethal?
Both fatal and lethal are formal words that are often used in technical or scientific contexts. However, lethal has a stronger and more negative connotation, which may make it less appropriate for formal or polite settings.
