as hot as hell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as hot as hell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is extremely hot, whether in a literal or figurative sense. Example: "The weather today is as hot as hell, making it difficult to stay outside for long."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In summer it's as hot as hell.

The Guardian - Sport

We were telling people who said it was as hot as hell, 'No, hell is hotter.' ".

The New York Times

As hot as hell, but oh so pretty and perfect for those without a garden.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The U.S. economy is still as hot as hell.

Forbes

This first day of the third Test may have ended with Australia on 326-6, but it was not always such a frightener on a Friday 13th as hot as hell.

BBC

Our apartment was as hot as hell and our fans only circulated hot hair.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

They say they have been to hell, but hell is not as hot as it had been depicted".

The New York Times

"Hell is just as hot as it ever was," he reminded them.

The New York Times - Magazine

To cap it off, there exists some friction with the flat-earthers, who have become hot-as-hell as of late, because the each theory makes the other redundant.

Vice

I think they're hot as hell".

The New Yorker

"If I do say so myself, sounds fucking great, hot as hell".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as hot as hell" to vividly describe extreme heat, whether literal (weather) or figurative (emotional intensity or competitive drive). It adds emphasis and color to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as hot as hell" in formal or professional writing, as its informal and somewhat crude nature may be inappropriate. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "extremely hot" or "intensely heated".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as hot as hell" functions as a simile, a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things using 'as' or 'like'. In this case, it compares the intensity of something's heat to the presumed heat of hell. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as hot as hell" is a simile used to vividly describe extreme heat, according to Ludwig. While grammatically correct and found in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, its informal nature makes it unsuitable for formal writing. When a writer needs a synonym with a less informal register, they could consider "extremely hot", or "intensely heated". Remember to use this phrase judiciously to achieve the desired effect without compromising the tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hot as fire

Direct comparison of the intensity of the heat to fire.

inferno-like

Compares the heat to an inferno, emphasizing the scale and intensity of the heat.

scorching hot

Highlights the burning effect of the heat, suggesting a surface-level intensity.

like an oven

Compares the heat to the enclosed, intense heat of an oven.

blazing hot

Emphasizes the intensity and visual aspect of the heat, implying a fiery quality.

boiling hot

Suggests a heat level similar to water at its boiling point.

sweltering heat

Focuses on the oppressive and uncomfortable nature of the heat, emphasizing its impact on the body.

extremely hot

A direct and literal way of expressing very high temperature.

fiercely hot

Emphasizes the aggressive and powerful nature of the heat.

sizzling hot

Emphasizes heat that causes a rapid, intense effect, like frying something.

FAQs

What does "as hot as hell" mean?

The phrase "as hot as hell" is an idiom used to describe something that is extremely hot. It can refer to weather, objects, or even a metaphorical situation.

How can I use "as hot as hell" in a sentence?

You might say, "The desert today is "as hot as hell"," to emphasize the extreme heat. Just be mindful of the context, as it's informal.

What can I say instead of "as hot as hell"?

Consider alternatives like "blazing hot", "scorching hot", or "extremely hot" depending on the situation and desired level of formality.

Is "as hot as hell" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "as hot as hell" is generally considered too informal for academic or professional writing. It is better suited for casual conversation or informal contexts.