What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cool
Example
The breeze feels cool on my skin. [cool: adjective]
Example
That new jacket looks really cool on you. [cool: adjective]
Example
She remained cool and collected during the interview. [cool: adjective]
cold
Example
The water in the pool is too cold to swim in. [cold: adjective]
Example
His response was cold and dismissive. [cold: adjective]
Example
I have a cold and can't stop sneezing. [cold: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cold is more commonly used than cool in everyday language, especially when referring to temperature or physical sensations. Cool is more commonly used when referring to fashion, trends, or attitudes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cool and cold?
Both cool and cold can be used in formal and informal contexts, but cool is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including slang and colloquial language.
