What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thermal
Example
The thermal springs in this area are very popular among tourists. [thermal: adjective]
Example
I need to buy some thermal socks for my winter trip. [thermal: adjective]
Example
The glider pilot used the thermal to gain altitude. [thermal: noun]
hot
Example
Be careful, the soup is hot. [hot: adjective]
Example
I love eating hot wings with a cold beer. [hot: adjective]
Example
This new artist is really hot right now. [hot: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hot is more commonly used than thermal in everyday language. Hot is a common word that covers a wide range of contexts, while thermal is less common and used mostly in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thermal and hot?
Thermal is more formal than hot, which is more casual and informal. Thermal is often used in technical or scientific writing, while hot can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
