What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonfatal
Example
The car crash resulted in several nonfatal injuries. [nonfatal: adjective]
Example
Thankfully, the gunshot wound was nonfatal and the victim survived. [nonfatal: adjective]
nonlethal
Example
The police used nonlethal force to subdue the suspect. [nonlethal: adjective]
Example
The tranquilizer dart is a nonlethal way to sedate wild animals. [nonlethal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nonfatal is more common than nonlethal in everyday language, especially in medical contexts. Nonlethal is more specific and less commonly used, often associated with law enforcement or military contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nonfatal and nonlethal?
Both nonfatal and nonlethal are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
