What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frosty
Example
The morning was frosty, and the grass was covered in a layer of frost. [frosty: adjective]
Example
The boss gave me a frosty reception when I arrived late to the meeting. [frosty: adjective]
Example
I ordered a frosty beer to cool down on a hot summer day. [frosty: adjective]
icy
Example
The roads were icy after the snowstorm, making driving dangerous. [icy: adjective]
Example
Her icy stare made me feel uncomfortable and unwelcome. [icy: adjective]
Example
The steps were icy, so I had to be careful not to slip and fall. [icy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Icy is more commonly used than frosty in everyday language. Icy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while frosty is less common and refers to specific situations such as weather conditions or drinks.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between frosty and icy?
Both frosty and icy are generally considered informal words, but icy can also be used in formal contexts to describe a person's demeanor or attitude in a professional setting.
