What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fatality
Example
The car crash resulted in one fatality and several injuries. [fatality: noun]
Example
The fatality rate for COVID-19 is higher among older adults and those with underlying health conditions. [fatality rate: noun]
Example
Skydiving has a higher risk of fatality than other recreational activities. [fatality: noun]
mortality
Example
All living beings have mortality in common. [mortality: noun]
Example
The mortality rate for heart disease has decreased in recent years. [mortality rate: noun]
Example
The study of mortality examines the causes and consequences of death. [mortality: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mortality is more commonly used than fatality in everyday language and academic writing. Mortality is a broader term that can be applied to various contexts, while fatality is more specific and often used in the context of accidents or disasters.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fatality and mortality?
Both fatality and mortality are formal words that can be used in academic writing or scientific research. However, mortality is more versatile and can also be used in everyday language, while fatality is more limited in its usage.
