What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sultry
Example
The sultry summer heat made it difficult to sleep at night. [sultry: adjective]
Example
She gave him a sultry look from across the room. [sultry: adjective]
Example
The sultry tension between the two characters was palpable. [sultry: adjective]
sweltering
Example
It was a sweltering day, and the air conditioning was broken. [sweltering: adjective]
Example
After running for an hour, he was sweltering and in desperate need of water. [sweltering: verb]
Example
The sweltering conditions in the factory made it difficult for workers to concentrate. [sweltering: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sweltering is more commonly used than sultry in everyday language. Sweltering is a more straightforward and versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while sultry is less common and has a narrower range of applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sultry and sweltering?
Both sultry and sweltering are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation. However, sultry can also be used in a more formal context when referring to a person's appearance or behavior.
