Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

for-one's-life-for-dear-life

phrase

/fɔr wʌnz laɪf fɔr dɪr laɪf/

Definition

A phrase emphasizing extreme danger, indicating that one is in a situation where their survival is at risk, compelling them to act urgently or with great effort.

Examples

During the intense storm, the hiker ran for his life for dear life as the winds howled.
She clung to the edge of the cliff, fighting for her life for dear life until help arrived.
In the marathon, he pushed himself for dear life to reach the finish line before collapsing.

Meaning

To fight desperately or to struggle with all one’s strength to avoid losing one’s life; often used to describe situations where a person is attempting to escape or overcome a perilous circumstance.