lethal
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈliːθəl/
KK: /ˈliːθəl/
adjective
Definition
Able to cause death or very serious harm.
Example
The snake's venom is lethal to small animals.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more lethal
Superlative: most lethal
Conversation
Did you hear about that new documentary on wildlife?
Yeah, I watched it last night! It's shocking how some animals can be so lethal.
I know, right? It makes you realize how dangerous nature can be.
Exactly! It's fascinating but also a bit scary.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fatal
deadly
mortal
Antonyms
harmless
benign
safe
noun
Definition
A condition or factor that causes death or is capable of causing death.
Example
The genetic mutation was found to be lethal to the developing embryos.
Conversation
Did you hear about that rare genetic condition they found recently?
Yeah, I read it can be quite lethal for those who have it.
It's scary how something so small can have such a big impact on life.
Root Explanation
Lethal → It is derived from the Latin word "letalis" (meaning deadly or fatal), which comes from "letum" (meaning death). The word "lethal" refers to something that is capable of causing death.
Memory Tip
Think of 'letalis' meaning deadly — this helps you remember that 'lethal' refers to something that can cause death.
Visually Confused Words
ethal
lecithal
ethnal
sublethal
leal
cleithral
alecithal