# lifeline

/ˈɫaɪˌfɫaɪn/ (US) · /lˈaɪflaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lifeline
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

something that helps you survive or succeed when you are in a very difficult situation. It can be a person, a service, or a piece of equipment that saves you.

For teachers: a source of vital assistance or support that enables survival or continued operation during a crisis. In its literal sense, refers to a rope or line used for saving life at sea.

## Examples

- The government grant was a lifeline for the small business.
- For many elderly residents living in remote areas, the local bus service is a vital lifeline to the nearest pharmacy.
- The emergency credit facility provided a necessary lifeline to the bank, preventing a total collapse of liquidity while the board negotiated a more permanent restructuring plan.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically with the preposition 'to' or 'for'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.