What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chilly
Example
I need to wear a jacket because it's chilly outside. [chilly: adjective]
Example
She wrapped herself in a blanket to keep warm in the chilly room. [chilly: adjective]
cold
Example
I caught a cold and have been sneezing all day. [cold: noun]
Example
The wind was so cold that it made my face numb. [cold: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cold is more commonly used than chilly in everyday language. Cold is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, including weather, illnesses, and physical sensations. On the other hand, chilly is less common and is mainly used to describe weather or environments.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chilly and cold?
While chilly is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, cold can be used in both formal and informal contexts. This makes cold a more versatile word in terms of formality.
