The word "fatal" is spelled with three syllables and the IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈfeɪ.təl/. The first syllable is pronounced as "fay" with the long vowel sound "eɪ". The second syllable is pronounced as "tə" with a schwa sound for the vowel. The final syllable is pronounced as "l" with a clear "l" sound. This word means causing death or having a disastrous effect, and it is important to spell it correctly to ensure clear communication in writing.
The term "fatal" is an adjective that describes something that has the potential to cause death or serious harm to individuals. It denotes an outcome that is destructive, lethal, or extremely dangerous. It is derived from the Latin word "fatalis," which means "fated" or "destined."
When applied to situations or events, "fatal" indicates the presence of characteristics, conditions, or circumstances that can result in severe consequences, especially causing loss of life. It emphasizes the irreversibility and irrevocability of the outcome, implying an inevitable, inescapable, or predetermined trajectory leading to death or fatality. This attribute is often associated with accidents, diseases, disasters, or any other impactful incident.
Additionally, the term "fatal" can also refer to an action, decision, or mistake that leads to disastrous consequences. It suggests that particular choices or behaviors, if pursued, will undoubtedly cause harm or demise. In law, it is used to describe an offense or act that results in death, typically warranting severe legal consequences.
Overall, "fatal" encapsulates the notion of a grave and irreversible outcome, often linked with death or severe harm due to the presence of dangerous conditions, actions, decisions, or events.
Deadly; mortal; causing death or destruction; inevitable; necessary.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "fatal" originated from the Latin word "fatalis", which is derived from the noun "fatum" meaning "fate" or "destiny". It has been recorded in English since the late 14th century and initially referred to something relating to destiny, foretelling, or determining future events. Over time, its meaning evolved to include an association with something disastrous, deadly, or leading to death.