deadly
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdɛdli/
KK: /ˈdɛdli/
adjective
Definition
Causing or likely to cause death; extremely harmful or dangerous.
Example
The snake's bite can be deadly if not treated quickly.
Conversation
Did you hear about that documentary on deadly animals?
Yeah, I saw it! Some of those creatures were terrifying.
I know, right? The way they described their deadly attacks was so intense.
For sure! It really made me appreciate how careful we need to be in nature.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fatal
lethal
mortal
Antonyms
harmless
safe
beneficial
adverb
Definition
In a way that can cause death or is extremely serious.
Example
The poison was deadly, and it could kill within minutes.
Conversation
Have you seen how deadly serious he is about his training?
Yeah, it’s impressive! He really puts in the effort.
I guess that’s why he’s so good at the sport.
Root Explanation
Deadly is formed from "dead" (from Old English "dead", meaning no longer alive) and "-ly" (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word "deadly" means in a manner that causes death or is capable of causing death.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'in a manner of' causing 'no longer alive' — that's why deadly means something that can cause death.
Visually Confused Words
dreadly
dearly
deafly
daidly
decadally
deal