The term "Mayday" is specifically designated for situations of grave or imminent danger, particularly when life is at risk. It is an international distress signal recognized across various forms of communication, including maritime and aviation. When someone sends a "Mayday" call, they are notifying others that extreme emergency assistance is required immediately, such as in the event of a sinking vessel, collision, or an individual overboard.
This designation is critical for prioritizing response efforts, as using "Mayday" alerts authorities and nearby vessels that a situation requires urgent and immediate action. Understanding the appropriate context for when to use "Mayday" is essential for effective communication and response in emergencies. Other terms exist for different types of communications: for example, "Pan-Pan" is used for urgency but not for imminent danger, while routine communications do not require any distress signal.