a frosty reception

USAGE SUMMARY

"a frosty reception" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a cold, unfriendly, or unwelcoming reception or response from someone or a group of people. Example: "When I arrived at the party, I was met with a frosty reception from my ex-girlfriend. It was clear that she was still upset with me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Irabu was used to a frosty reception by then.

The New York Times

The reporters from New York received a frosty reception.

The New York Times - Sports

Their boyfriends can give me a frosty reception too.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But I get a frosty reception from Pageantmaster Dominic Reid, who doesn't seem impressed.

Independent

Even if the airline permits it, expect a frosty reception from border officials.

Independent

However, a fair-sized minority has already given Old Mutual's overture a frosty reception.

The Economist

LAKSHMI MITTAL is not the only Indian investor to have got a frosty reception in France.

The Economist

That conclusion, though not unexpected, received a frosty reception from both Republicans and Democrats.

The New York Times

This is Snow for the DNA age, complete with a frosty reception from the faculty.

The New York Times - Books

Marissen says that his findings have often met with a frosty reception at musicological conferences.

The New Yorker

Among the other newcomers, Harriet Kemsley met with a frosty reception when I attended last weekend.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional impact of the phrase. Using "a frosty reception" suggests a deliberate act of coldness or rejection, so ensure it aligns with the intended tone.

Common error

Avoid using "a frosty reception" when a simpler lack of enthusiasm is meant. The phrase implies a deliberate, palpable coldness, not just a mild disinterest or absence of warmth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frosty reception" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb, describing the manner in which someone or something is received. It is often used to convey a sense of unwelcoming or unfriendly behavior, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Lifestyle

8%

Sport

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a frosty reception" is a common idiom used to describe an unfriendly or unwelcoming greeting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media contexts. Related phrases include "a cold welcome" and "a chilly reception", though the specific choice depends on the degree of coldness you want to convey. When using this phrase, be mindful of the intensity, as it implies a deliberate act of coldness, not just a lack of enthusiasm. Knowing its nuances will enhance your writing and understanding of English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cold welcome

Focuses on the lack of warmth in the greeting.

an unwelcoming greeting

Emphasizes the lack of hospitality.

a cool response

Suggests a lack of enthusiasm or warmth.

a chilly reception

Indicates a distinct lack of warmth and friendliness.

a hostile greeting

Highlights an actively unfriendly or aggressive welcome.

an indifferent greeting

Suggests a lack of interest or concern.

a negative response

Focuses on the unfavorable nature of the reaction.

a discouraging welcome

Implies that the reception dampened spirits or enthusiasm.

a disapproving reaction

Emphasizes the lack of approval conveyed by the greeting.

a reserved welcome

Highlights a cautious or restrained greeting.

FAQs

How can I use "a frosty reception" in a sentence?

You can use "a frosty reception" to describe a situation where someone is received in an unfriendly or unwelcoming manner. For example: "The new CEO received "a frosty reception" from the employees."

What's a less intense alternative to "a frosty reception"?

If you want to convey a less intense feeling of being unwelcome, you could use phrases like "a cool reception" or "an unenthusiastic welcome" instead.

Is it correct to say "a icy reception" instead of "a frosty reception"?

While "icy" and "frosty" are similar, "a frosty reception" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "Icy reception" is less frequently used and might sound slightly awkward.

What does it mean when someone gives you "a frosty reception"?

It means they are behaving in an unfriendly or unwelcoming way towards you. This could involve coldness, aloofness, or even outright hostility.