Welcome to this guide where we’ll explore the various ways to express “hot” in British slang. Whether you’re looking to sound more local, impress your British friends, or just expand your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Hot”
When it comes to formal language, the British tend to stick to more standard terms. Here are a few ways to say “hot” in a more respectable manner:
1. Warm
The word “warm” is a simple and widely understood term to describe heat. It’s used across the country and is considered a safe choice in any formal setting. For instance:
“The weather today is quite warm.”
2. Scorching
If you want to emphasize extreme heat, “scorching” is a formal option. It’s often used in weather reports or when referring to heatwaves. An example sentence could be:
“During the heatwave last summer, it was scorching outside.”
Informal Ways to Say “Hot”
Now let’s dive into the exciting world of British slang! Here are some informal expressions that Brits use to describe hot weather or objects:
1. Boiling
When it gets exceptionally hot, especially during the summer months, Brits frequently use the term “boiling.” It implies blistering heat, and here’s an example of how to use it:
“I stepped outside today, and it was absolutely boiling!”
2. Baking
If you want to convey the feeling of intense heat, “baking” is a commonly used phrase. It’s often employed to describe a particularly hot day, especially when the sun is shining brightly. Here’s an example:
“We went for a walk earlier, and it was like baking in an oven.”
3. Sweltering
To express unbearable heat, you can use the term “sweltering.” It’s often used in relation to humid and stifling weather conditions. For instance:
“It’s so sweltering in this room! Can we turn on the air conditioning?”
4. Roasting
In some parts of the country, particularly in the north, you might come across the word “roasting” to describe hot weather. This informal term can be used like this:
“The sun is shining, and it’s roasting outside! Time to hit the beach.”
Regional Variations
British slang can vary depending on the region. While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood across the country, some local variations exist. Here are a couple of regional terms:
1. Scorchio (London slang)
In London, it is common to hear the word “scorchio” to describe hot weather. This term gained popularity thanks to a comedy sketch, and it is now widely recognized throughout the UK as well. For example:
“It’s scorchio outside, so let’s enjoy the sunny day!”
2. Swealtering (West Country slang)
In the West Country, particularly in areas like Cornwall and Devon, you might encounter the term “swealtering” to describe intense heat. It’s predominantly used in local dialects, and here’s how it can be used:
“The farmhouse gets absolutely swealtering during summer afternoons.”
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now expanded your vocabulary with formal and informal ways to say “hot” in British slang. Whether you choose to use the more standard terms in formal settings or embrace the exciting world of informal expressions, you’re well on your way to sounding more like a true Brit. Remember to stay hydrated during scorching days and enjoy the beautiful weather!
