rather hot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather hot" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is very warm but not quite hot. For example, "The day was rather hot, but the breeze in the shade was quite pleasant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science & Research

Lifestyle

Travel

Sports

Food

Opinion

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

It has become a rather hot potato.

The Guardian

Soprano: Won't it be rather hot? / When he appeareth.

The Guardian - Books

#savethedolphin We're buying: Fifty shades It's rather hot out there – don't tell me you hadn't noticed.

Independent

For a cold — or rather, hot — technology, their story is really one not of technology, but of people.

The New York Times - Sports

Be prepared to feel a little chilly on the way up, but rather hot, sweaty and euphoric on the descent.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

'Yes, he looks rather hot in that costume.' Rudolph, who, mercifully, couldn't talk, mutely shrugged and shook his head.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Don't fight with the locals, they're nice people, but rather hot-headed.

WikiHow

However, make sure the water you use is merely warm rather than hot, as hot water can dry your skin out further, thus causing more irritation and itchiness.

WikiHow

Use warm water, rather than hot or cold water, because hot and cold water can make your face flushed and increase the redness of your rosacea.

WikiHow

You can remedy this by taking warm (rather than hot) showers and avoiding spas or hot tubs.

WikiHow

SHRIMP CREOLE This dish is sweet rather than hot.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rather hot" to convey a sense of noticeable warmth that isn't extreme. It's ideal when you want to downplay the intensity slightly or add a touch of understatement.

Common error

Avoid using "rather hot" in overly formal or professional documents where more precise language might be expected. In these settings, consider using more specific adjectives like "warm", "heated", or providing the actual temperature.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "rather hot" is as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the degree of heat or intensity, indicating something is noticeably warm without being extremely so. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

20%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Lifestyle

4%

Books

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "rather hot" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe something that is noticeably warm but not extremely so. Ludwig AI indicates that is commonly used in news, science and general contexts. When writing, it’s best used to add a touch of understatement or qualification, but should be avoided in overly formal settings where more precise language may be required. Alternatives include "moderately warm" or "somewhat intense", depending on the context. Remember to consider the level of formality in your writing and choose the most appropriate wording for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moderately warm

Expresses a similar level of warmth but uses more neutral language.

noticeably warm

Highlights that the warmth is easily detected or apparent.

reasonably heated

Focuses on the state of being heated to a moderate degree.

somewhat intense

Shifts focus from temperature to intensity, applicable in broader contexts.

fairly spicy

Refers to the heat of food, a specific application of the term.

relatively torrid

Implies a state of being intensely hot, often in a figurative sense.

quite attractive

Replaces the temperature meaning with one of physical appeal.

distinctly sultry

Suggests a more sensual and heavy kind of heat or attractiveness.

passably appealing

Indicates a moderate level of attractiveness or desirability.

tepidly passionate

Applies to emotions, suggesting a subdued level of passion.

FAQs

How can I use "rather hot" in a sentence?

You can use "rather hot" to describe something that is noticeably warm but not extremely so. For example, "The soup was "rather hot", so I waited a few minutes before eating it."

What's the difference between "rather hot" and "very hot"?

"Rather hot" implies a moderate level of heat, while "very hot" suggests a higher, more intense level. "Rather hot" is less intense than "very hot".

What can I say instead of "rather hot"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "moderately warm", "somewhat intense", or "fairly spicy".

Is it correct to say "rather hot"?

Yes, "rather hot" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a standard and acceptable phrase in English.