What does “To Run Hot and Cold” mean?
"To run hot and cold" means to frequently change one's opinion or attitude towards something or someone.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He runs hot and cold when it comes to his favorite sports team.
Example
She runs hot and cold about whether she wants to go on the trip or not.
Example
Their boss runs hot and cold with his feedback on their work
Is “To Run Hot and Cold” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“To Run Hot and Cold” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “To Run Hot and Cold” effectively in context?
You can use "To Run Hot and Cold" to describe someone who frequently changes their opinion or attitude towards something or someone. It implies inconsistency and unpredictability. For example, if a friend is indecisive about going on a trip, you might say, 'She runs hot and cold about whether she wants to go or not.'
- 1Sports
He runs hot and cold when it comes to his favorite sports team. One day he's their biggest fan, and the next day he's completely disinterested.
- 2Decision-making
She runs hot and cold about whether she wants to go on the trip or not. One moment she's excited, and the next moment she's hesitant.
- 3Work
Their boss runs hot and cold with his feedback on their work. Sometimes he praises them, and other times he criticizes them harshly.
Similar phrases to “To Run Hot and Cold”:
Flip-flop
To change one's opinion or position frequently
Example
The politician flip-flopped on his stance on the issue multiple times.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “To Run Hot and Cold” come from?
The origin of the phrase "To Run Hot and Cold" is unknown.
Is “To Run Hot and Cold” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "To Run Hot and Cold" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone's inconsistent behavior or changing opinions.
What tone does “To Run Hot and Cold” have?
"To Run Hot and Cold" conveys a tone of uncertainty and unpredictability. It suggests that the person being described is not reliable or consistent in their thoughts or actions.
Can “To Run Hot and Cold” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "To Run Hot and Cold" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes someone's changing opinions or attitudes. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He runs hot and cold when it comes to his favorite sports team.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's always running hot and cold!' to imply someone's inconsistent behavior.
