Pronunciation

/ˈfeɪtəl/

Definitions

• Adjective: Causing death; having a deadly quality or effect. For example: “A fatal accident claimed several lives.”
• Adjective: (of a decision, mistake, or situation) Having severe, irrevocable consequences. For example: “His fatal mistake cost him the game.”

Phrases

• “Fatal attraction”: An irresistible but ultimately destructive force or desire.
• “Fatal error”: A serious mistake that leads to complete failure or disaster.
• “Fatal flaw”: A character defect or inherent weakness that leads to the downfall of a person or thing.
• “Fatal disease”: A disease that results in death if untreated or incurable.

Example Sentences

• Adjective (causing death): “The patient died from a fatal overdose of the medication.”
• Adjective (irrevocable consequences): “His fatal misjudgment in trusting his opponent led to his political downfall.”

Synonyms

• Deadly
• Mortal
• Lethal
• Catastrophic
• Inevitable (when referring to consequences)
• Irreversible (when referring to mistakes or decisions)
• Terminal (especially when referring to illnesses)