The phrase “a matter of life and death” is a common expression that is used to describe situations that are extremely important and require immediate attention. It is a phrase that is often used to emphasize the seriousness of a situation, and it is one that is used across different cultures and languages. In this article, we will explore the meaning and definition of “a matter of life and death,” its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
A matter of life and death is a phrase that is used to describe a situation that is extremely important and requires immediate attention. It is a phrase that is often used to describe situations that involve the risk of death or serious injury. The phrase can also be used to describe situations that are critical to a person’s well-being, such as a medical emergency or a financial crisis.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “a matter of life and death” is not clear, but it is believed to have been in use since the 17th century. The phrase is often used in literature and has been used in various forms in different languages and cultures.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, “a matter of life and death” is defined as “a situation involving the risk of death or serious injury.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “something that is extremely important and must be dealt with immediately.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “a situation that is so serious that it involves the risk of death.”
Associations
The phrase “a matter of life and death” is often associated with situations that involve risk, danger, or urgency. It is a phrase that is commonly used in medical emergencies, military situations, and legal proceedings. The phrase is also associated with situations that involve high stakes, such as financial crises or political conflicts.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “a matter of life and death” include:
- Critical situation.
- Urgent matter.
- Emergency.
- Life-or-death situation.
- High-stakes situation.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “a matter of life and death” include:
- Trivial matter.
- Insignificant issue.
- Minor concern.
- Non-urgent situation.
The same root words
The phrase “a matter of life and death” is derived from the root words “life” and “death.” These words are often used together to describe situations that involve the risk of death or serious injury. The phrase is also used to describe situations that are critical to a person’s well-being.
Example Sentences
- The doctor said it was a matter of life and death, and we needed to act quickly.
- The soldiers knew that the mission was a matter of life and death.
- The financial crisis was a matter of life and death for the company.
- The lawyer argued that the case was a matter of life and death for his client.
In conclusion, “a matter of life and death” is a phrase that is used to describe situations that are extremely important and require immediate attention. It is a phrase that is often associated with risk, danger, and urgency. The phrase is derived from the root words “life” and “death,” and it has been in use for centuries. Understanding the meaning of this phrase is essential for anyone who wants to communicate effectively in high-stakes situations.