What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scalding
Example
Be careful with that scalding hot coffee, it might burn you. [scalding: adjective]
Example
The recipe calls for scalding the milk before adding it to the mixture. [scalding: verb]
hot
Example
The soup is too hot to eat right now, let it cool down. [hot: adjective]
Example
It's so hot outside, I can't wait to go swimming. [hot: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hot is more commonly used than scalding in everyday language. Hot is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while scalding is less common and typically used in specific contexts such as cooking or medical treatment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scalding and hot?
Both scalding and hot can be used in formal and informal contexts, but scalding may be more formal due to its association with cooking and medical treatment.
