warm

USAGE SUMMARY

"warm" is a perfectly correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe temperature (e.g. "It's a warm day today"), or to generally describe a feeling (e.g. "I feel warm and fuzzy inside"). You can also use it in a more figurative sense, such as in the sentence "Her words were warm and comforting".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When the Queen arrived inside the auditorium she was given a warm reception, before Byrne said: "I never dreamed I would live to see this day".

The Guardian

The price is at the high end, so if you're seeking a more fast and affordable pit stop, head to Harvest Bakery, right next door, serving light food and coffees, and why not take a warm loaf for the road.

The Guardian - Travel

However, this warm welcome does not extend to his party and that is the real message that Livingstone must take away with him if he wants to be re-elected as London mayor in 2012.

The Guardian - Opinion

In addition, the response of the majority of the Irish public, whose attitude veers from a warm welcome to benign indifference, also underlines how isolated the republican dissidents are in modern Ireland.

The Guardian

If those responses are a concern for Preston fans they can take encouragement from the warm words Beckford had for Grayson, whom he first worked under at Leeds and clearly holds in high regard.

The Guardian - Sport

GRAN CANARIA If wrapping up warm for wintry romance isn't your thing, escape for a week in the Canary islands, where winter temperatures are usually around 20C. Gran Canaria, with its rolling sand dunes and lush palm plantations, has a stark beauty and, perhaps more importantly, a smattering of slick spa hotels.

The Guardian - Travel

Ashley told analysts that the company's performance had been hit by the warm autumn but perhaps less so than the rest of the UK's fashion retailers.

The Guardian - Business

Calle Sevilla 6, barbadillo.com, tours 11am (English), noon and 1pm (Spanish), €6pp Windsurfing, kite surfing, and surfing, Tarifa The heady combination of strong winds, warm winters and extensive sandy beaches have established Tarifa as a top destination for year-round wet fun.

The Guardian - Travel

Tsotie's habitual warm smile is notably absent as she talks about the erstwhile occupant of room number six.

The Guardian

"I wish to thank all staff at the club, the fans and my team-mates for their warm welcome and support during my three months.

The Guardian - Sport

When the Serb beat the Spaniard 7-5, 6-1, 6-1 in less than two and a half hours on a warm, still afternoon in front of an awe-struck audience on Court Philippe Chatrier, to advance to the semi-finals against Andy Murray on Friday, he not only tore up the record books, he left a considerable psychic bruise on the outgoing champion.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an emotional state, consider "warm" for portraying genuine kindness or affection.

Common error

Avoid using "warm" in highly technical or scientific writing where more precise terms may be appropriate. For example, instead of saying the "warm" object, specify the temperature range.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "warm" primarily functions as a descriptor, modifying nouns to indicate a slightly elevated temperature or a feeling of friendliness. Ludwig AI's examples show it effectively describing both physical states (e.g., "warm tea") and emotional states (e.g., "warm welcome").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Lifestyle

25%

Travel

20%

Less common in

Sport

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "warm" is a versatile adjective widely used across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent occurrence, particularly in News & Media, Lifestyle, Travel and Sport. It effectively describes physical temperature, emotional states, and even abstract concepts like welcomes or receptions. When using "warm", consider the specific context to ensure the intended meaning is clear. While generally neutral in register, avoid overuse in technical writing where more precise terms may be required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lukewarm

Describes something that is only moderately warm, lacking intensity.

tepid

Similar to lukewarm, indicating a lack of heat or enthusiasm.

balmy

Refers to weather that is pleasantly warm.

genial

Describes a person or atmosphere that is friendly and warm.

cordial

Indicates warmth and sincerity in social interactions.

affable

Describes someone who is easy to approach and warm in manner.

welcoming

Indicates a warm and friendly reception.

amiable

Describes someone who is pleasant and warm in disposition.

sunny

Used to describe a disposition or personality that is cheerful and warm.

radiant

Conveys a sense of warmth and brightness, often used to describe a person's expression.

FAQs

How can I use "warm" in a sentence?

You can use "warm" to describe temperature, such as "The tea is still warm", or to describe a feeling, such as "We have a warm friendship".

What are some synonyms for "warm" when describing a person's character?

When describing a person, you can use synonyms like "genial", "cordial", or "affable" to convey a similar sense of friendliness and kindness.

When is it more appropriate to use "lukewarm" instead of "warm"?

"Lukewarm" is best used when something is only moderately warm, lacking the intensity of being truly "warm". It can also describe a lack of enthusiasm, in contrast to the positive connotation of "warm".

How does the meaning of "warm" change depending on the context?

The word "warm" can refer to physical temperature, emotional connection, or even a color tone. Understanding the context helps determine the intended meaning, ensuring clear communication.