A2noun1K

Temperature

UK /["/ˈtemprətʃə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈtemprətʃər//ˈtemprətʃʊr/"]/

Definition

the measurement in degrees of how hot or cold a thing or place is

In simple words: How hot or cold something is.

Examples

  • The temperature today is much warmer than yesterday.
  • You should check the temperature before going out.
  • The doctor took my temperature to see if I had a fever.
  • We can use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water.
  • The temperature dropped significantly during the night.

Usage notes

Used in both casual and formal contexts, 'temperature' is appropriate for discussions about weather, science, and health. Avoid in very informal conversations where simpler terms like 'hotness' or 'coldness' might be used.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'temp' like 'tempo' in music — the rhythm changes with the heat!

Collocations

  • high
  • hot
  • warm
  • have
  • heat something to
  • increase
  • go up
  • increase
  • rise
  • conditions
  • change
  • difference
  • at… temperature
  • in a temperature
  • temperature above
  • a change in temperature
  • a variation in temperature
  • a range of temperature
  • high
  • slight
  • have
  • run
  • take
  • go up
  • rise
  • come down
  • temperature of

Synonyms

  • heat
  • warmth
  • degree

Antonyms

  • cold
  • cool
  • chill

Common mistakes

  • Confusing temperature with 'weather'—temperature is a specific measurement.
  • Using the wrong units (Celsius vs. Fahrenheit) without clarification.
  • Saying 'the temperature is very hot' instead of 'the temperature is high.'