What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lethal
Example
The snake's venom is lethal and can kill a human within hours. [lethal: adjective]
Example
The police officer had to use lethal force to stop the attacker. [lethal: adjective]
harmful
Example
Smoking is harmful to your health and can cause lung cancer. [harmful: adjective]
Example
The chemicals in the cleaning product are harmful to the environment. [harmful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harmful is more commonly used than lethal in everyday language. Harmful is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while lethal is more specific and is typically used in more serious situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lethal and harmful?
Lethal is a more formal word than harmful. It is often used in legal or medical contexts, while harmful can be used in both formal and informal situations.
