they were hotter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were hotter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the temperature or attractiveness of something or someone in a comparative context. Example: "After the sun came out, they were hotter than before, making the day feel even more intense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They were hotter.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

They were hot.

The New York Times

They were hot guys in town.

The New York Times

But they were hot without flash.

The New York Times - Sports

"They're from two years ago when they were hot".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They were hot, juicy and the size of tennis balls.

The New York Times - Arts

On one night, they were hot and stale.

The New York Times

I loved their scenes — they were hot, hot, hot.

Wikipedia

They were hot, the establishment was bothered.

Vice

And that they were hot in the Reagan years.

Vice

"They're hot".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were hotter", ensure the context is clear whether you're referring to temperature, attractiveness, popularity, or another form of intensity. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your message is accurately conveyed.

Common error

Avoid assuming "they were hotter" always refers to physical attractiveness. Ensure your audience understands if you're referring to temperature, popularity, or another form of intensity relevant to the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were hotter" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating a comparative state of being. As Ludwig AI underlines, the comparison can relate to temperature, attractiveness, or popularity. Its precise meaning is context-dependent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they were hotter" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression. According to Ludwig AI analysis, it serves primarily as a descriptive statement that draws a comparison, indicating that something or someone has increased in temperature, attractiveness, or popularity relative to a previous state. Its usage spans various contexts, most prominently in News & Media. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the intended meaning to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were more attractive

Focuses specifically on physical appeal rather than other possible meanings of "hotter".

they were sexier

Directly refers to sexual attractiveness.

they were more desirable

Highlights the aspect of being wished for or attractive.

they were more popular

Shifts the meaning to indicate trendiness or widespread appeal.

they were warmer

Emphasizes a literal increase in temperature.

they were trendier

Focuses on the aspect of being fashionable or up-to-date.

they were in greater demand

Highlights the aspect of being highly sought after.

they were more blazing

Uses a more figurative term to indicate intensity or passion.

they were more scorching

Emphasizes extreme heat or intensity.

they were more feverish

Implies a high level of excitement or intensity.

FAQs

What does "they were hotter" mean?

The phrase "they were hotter" can refer to an increase in temperature, attractiveness, or popularity. The specific meaning depends on the context.

How can I use "they were hotter" in a sentence?

Example: "After the team's winning streak, they were hotter than ever."

What can I say instead of "they were hotter"?

You can use alternatives like "they were more attractive", "they were more popular", or "they were warmer" depending on the intended meaning.

Is "they were hotter" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they were hotter" is grammatically correct. It uses the correct form of the verb "to be" (were) with the comparative adjective "hotter".