B1 3K

Motal

UK //ˈmɔː.təl// US //ˈmɔr.təl// Pronunciation

Definition

Relating to or having the quality of death; beings that can die.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A word used to describe something that is alive or can die.

Examples

• Humans are mortal beings, destined to die one day.
• The mortal wound left him unable to survive.
• All mortal creatures share the same fate of death.
• He pondered the meaning of mortal life during the sunset.
• Despite being mortal, we strive for greatness.

Usage notes

Used to describe living things or beings. Often contrasts with 'immortal,' which means unable to die.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'mortal' like 'mortality' – both relate to life and death.

Collocations

• mortal fear
• mortal danger
• mortal souls

Synonyms

• human
• living
• perishable

Antonyms

• immortal
• everlasting

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'mortal' as a verb instead of an adjective.
• Incorrectly using 'mortal' to describe abstract concepts.
• Mispronouncing the word by stressing the wrong syllable.