What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frosty
Example
The frosty air made it difficult to breathe. [frosty: adjective]
Example
She gave him a frosty look and turned away. [frosty: adjective]
Example
I ordered a frosty glass of lemonade to cool off. [frosty: adjective]
chilly
Example
I need to wear a jacket because it's chilly outside. [chilly: adjective]
Example
He gave her a chilly response when she asked for help. [chilly: adjective]
Example
The conference room was chilly, and everyone was shivering. [chilly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chilly is more commonly used than frosty in everyday language. Chilly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while frosty is less common and refers to a more extreme cold temperature or a drink served with ice crystals.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between frosty and chilly?
Both frosty and chilly are informal words and can be used in casual conversations. However, frosty may be less appropriate in formal settings due to its negative connotation when describing a person's demeanor.
