matter of life and death
The phrase "matter of life and death" emphasizes extreme urgency and critical importance, often implying potential severe consequences if not addressed promptly.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)A situation where the outcome could determine survival or fatality.
Example
- Getting to the hospital on time was a matter of life and death.
B2General
(idiomatic)An extremely urgent and crucial issue, potentially involving severe consequences.
Example
- For the rescue team, every minute was a matter of life and death.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "matter of life and death":
fight for one's lifeto save one's lifefight to the deathto the deathto deathfor lifein extremiswithin an inch of one's life