un calor del demonio
/un kaloɾ del demonjo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "hot as hell" can be translated into Spanish as un calor del demonio.
This phrase is used to describe extremely high temperatures and the intensity of the heat. It is not used to describe a person's physical temperature.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase un calor del demonio literally translates to "a heat of the devil".
Which one should you use?
While un calor del demonio is a common way to express this, you can also use un calor de locos (crazy heat) to convey a similar level of intensity. For a more literal but still informal translation meaning "hot as hell itself", you might use caliente como el mismísimo infierno.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
un calor del demonio is an informal expression. You should avoid using it in formal writing or professional settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using this expression to describe the weather, use the verb hacer (to make/do) instead of ser (to be). For example, you would say hace un calor del demonio to say "it is extremely hot".
Did you know?
- While un calor del demonio refers to the weather, using the adjective caliente to describe a person can accidentally imply they are sexually aroused rather than having a fever.
- The word demonio has a much softer origin than its modern meaning suggests. It comes from the Ancient Greek daimónion, which originally referred to a 'divine power' or 'lesser deity' rather than a personification of evil.
Examples in context
- El desierto es como un horno durante el día.The desert is like an oven during the day.
- Hoy hace un calor del demonio.It is hot as hell today.
- En el desierto hace un calor del demonio.It is hot as hell in the desert.
Example conversation
Mateo and Lucía are walking through a city street in summer.
- Mateo¡Qué fuerte es este sol!This sun is so strong!
- LucíaSí, hace un calor del demonio hoy.Yes, it is hot as hell today.
- MateoBusquemos una sombra rápidamente.Let's find some shade quickly.
- LucíaBuena idea, Mateo.Good idea, Mateo.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries calor, del, demonio, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
