Learn how to use the comparative “hotter” and superlative “hottest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “scorching”?

The comparative form of “scorching” is “hotter”.

Example

The desert is hotter than the beach.

Example

Today is hotter than yesterday.

What is the superlative form of “scorching”?

The superlative form of “scorching” is “hottest”.

Example

The sun is the hottest object in our solar system.

Example

This is the hottest day of the year.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with hot, hotter, and hottest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more hot' and 'most hot' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, hotter and hottest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Scorching does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Scorching → Hotter Superlative: Scorching → Hottest

Expressions with similar meanings to “hotter”

warmer

Used to describe something that is hotter in a comfortable or pleasant way

Example

The warmer weather is perfect for a day at the beach.

more intense

A slightly formal way of expressing increased heat

Example

The more intense heat of the summer can be unbearable without air conditioning.

Expressions with similar meanings to “hottest”

warmest

Similar to hottest, this emphasizes both heat and comfort

Example

The warmest part of the day is usually in the afternoon.

most intense

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of heat

Example

The most intense heat of the day is usually around noon.

Using than with comparative “hotter”

When using the comparative form hotter to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The desert is hotter than the beach." Here, than is used to show that the temperature of the desert is greater than the temperature of the beach.

How can I use this expression in context?

“hotter” and “hottest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Weather

  Today is hotter than yesterday.

  Today is hotter than yesterday.

• 2. Climate

  The summer in this region is hotter than in other parts of the country.

  The summer in this region is hotter than in other parts of the country.

• 3. Food

  The chili sauce is the hottest condiment on the menu.

  The chili sauce is the hottest condiment on the menu.

• 4. Objects

  The stove burner is hotter than the countertop.

  The stove burner is hotter than the countertop.

• 5. Activities

  Running in the sun makes you feel hotter.

  Running in the sun makes you feel hotter.

Related idioms and phrases

In the heat of the moment

During a time of intense emotion or excitement.

Example

He said something he didn't mean in the heat of the moment.

Hot under the collar

To be angry or agitated.

Example

She got hot under the collar when she heard the news.

Hot potato

A controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to handle.

Example

The topic of politics can be a hot potato during family gatherings.