15 Different Ways to Say ‘It’s Cold’ in English

When it comes to describing temperature, especially the chilly kind, English provides a variety of expressions that can capture the essence of coldness in different contexts. In this article, we’ll explore different ways to say ‘It’s cold,’ each accompanied by a scenario example to illustrate its use.

Explore Different Ways to Say ‘It’s Cold’ and add variety to your expressions! From casual remarks like “It’s freezing out here” to poetic descriptions like “The air bites today,” find creative phrases to describe chilly weather.

Whether you’re discussing the weather, a cold drink, or the temperature indoors, using diverse vocabulary can make your communication more engaging and vivid.

List Of Different Ways to Say ‘It’s Cold’ in English

It’s chilly outside.
It’s freezing out here.
It’s bitterly cold.
It’s frosty today.
It’s nippy outside.
It’s brisk out.
It’s arctic out here.
It’s cold as ice.
It’s chilly enough to see your breath.
It’s cold enough for hot chocolate.
It’s ice-cold.
It’s cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey.
It’s frigid outside.
It’s bone-chillingly cold.
It’s unbearably cold.

1. It’s Chilly Outside

When the temperature dips just enough to warrant a light jacket, saying it’s chilly can perfectly encapsulate that feeling.

Scenario:
Subject: Planning Our Weekend Hike

Hi Mia,

I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to check in about our hiking trip this weekend. I saw the forecast, and it looks like it’s chilly outside—around 50°F. I recommend wearing layers so we can stay comfortable while enjoying the fresh air. Looking forward to it!

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Chilly” is often used informally to describe a mild cold, making it an approachable term for casual conversation.

2. It’s Freezing Out Here

This phrase is commonly used when the temperature is significantly low, often implying that you might need extra layers.

Scenario:
Subject: Change of Plans for Tonight

Hey Mia,

I just stepped outside, and it’s freezing out here! I know we planned to grab dinner at that outdoor café, but I think we should consider somewhere inside. What do you think?

Stay warm,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Freezing” not only describes temperature but also evokes a stronger emotional response, suggesting discomfort.

3. It’s Bitterly Cold

This expression is used to convey an intense feeling of cold, often combined with strong winds, making it quite uncomfortable.

Scenario:
Subject: Ski Trip Update

Hi Mia,

I wanted to give you an update on our ski trip. The weather report indicates that it’s bitterly cold up in the mountains. We might want to invest in some thicker gloves and hats to ensure we’re cozy while hitting the slopes.

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Bitterly cold” paints a vivid picture of the cold, often used in literary contexts to enhance emotional impact.

4. It’s Frosty Today

Describing the weather as frosty often implies that there’s a layer of frost outside, indicating a chilly atmosphere.

Scenario:
Subject: Morning Run

Hey Mia,

Just a heads-up before our morning run: it’s frosty today! The grass is covered in ice, so we should be careful on our route. Dress warm, and I’ll see you soon!

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Frosty” can also evoke imagery, as it relates to the appearance of the surroundings, enhancing descriptive storytelling.

5. It’s Nippy Outside

“Nippy” conveys a slight chill, often used in a friendly or informal tone, making it great for casual conversations.

Scenario:
Subject: Outdoor Concert Plans

Hi Mia,

I just wanted to confirm our plans for the concert tonight. I checked the weather, and it looks like it’s nippy outside. Let’s meet early so we can grab some hot chocolate first!

Cheers,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
Using “nippy” adds a playful touch to the conversation, making it feel more relatable.

6. It’s Brisk Out

When the air is cold but refreshing, describing it as brisk can imply a sense of invigoration.

Scenario:
Subject: Jogging Together

Hey Mia,

Are you still up for our jog this evening? It looks like it’s brisk out, which is perfect for a refreshing workout. Just make sure to wear something warm!

See you soon,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Brisk” can suggest vitality, making it suitable for promoting active lifestyles in cold weather.

7. It’s Arctic Out Here

Using “arctic” emphasizes extreme cold, often associated with the polar regions. It’s a dramatic way to convey chilly temperatures.

Scenario:
Subject: Winter Picnic Cancelation

Hi Mia,

I hate to say this, but I think we should cancel our picnic. It’s arctic out here! The temperatures are much lower than we anticipated, and I wouldn’t want us to freeze. Let’s reschedule for a warmer day!

Take care,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
This expression adds a touch of exaggeration, which can be humorous in light-hearted conversations.

8. It’s Cold as Ice

This phrase is a simile that vividly describes the coldness, implying that it’s not just cool but truly frigid.

Scenario:
Subject: Cold Drinks at the Party

Hey Mia,

I hope you’re ready for the party tonight! Just a heads up: it’s cold as ice in my living room due to the air conditioning. Bring a sweater, and let’s enjoy some chilled drinks!

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
Using similes enhances imagery and adds a poetic quality to the language, making it more engaging.

9. It’s Chilly Enough to See Your Breath

This phrase indicates that the temperature has dropped to the point where you can see your breath in the air.

Scenario:
Subject: Morning Coffee Plans

Hi Mia,

I’m excited for our coffee date! Just so you know, it’s chilly enough to see your breath this morning. Let’s meet at that cozy café downtown; it’ll be nice to warm up inside.

See you soon!
Hannah

Expert Addition:
This phrase invites sensory imagery, allowing listeners to visualize and experience the cold in a relatable way.

10. It’s Cold Enough for Hot Chocolate

This phrase implies that the temperature has dropped significantly, prompting the need for something warm to drink.

Scenario:
Subject: Cozy Movie Night

Hey Mia,

I was thinking we could have a cozy movie night! It’s cold enough for hot chocolate tonight, so I’ll whip some up. Let me know what movies you want to watch!

Cheers,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
This expression evokes a sense of comfort and warmth, making it ideal for friendly invitations during cold weather.

11. It’s Ice-Cold

“Ice-cold” is a straightforward way to describe something extremely cold, often used for both weather and beverages.

Scenario:
Subject: Drinks for the Game

Hi Mia,

Are you ready for the game this weekend? I’ll bring the snacks, but don’t forget to grab some drinks; I want them ice-cold! Nothing beats watching sports with a chilled drink in hand.

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
Using “ice-cold” enhances clarity in communication, making it easy to understand the level of cold being described.

12. It’s Cold Enough to Freeze the Balls Off a Brass Monkey

This humorous and exaggerated expression conveys a very low temperature, often used colloquially.

Scenario:
Subject: Outdoor Activities

Hey Mia,

Are we still on for that outdoor event? I just checked the weather, and it’s cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey! We might want to rethink our plans and find something indoors.

Take care,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
While humorous, this expression is more informal and best suited for friendly conversations rather than professional settings.

13. It’s Frigid Outside

“Frigid” is a more formal way to describe extreme cold, often used in weather reports and serious discussions about temperature.

Scenario:
Subject: Winter Weather Advisory

Hi Mia,

Just wanted to remind you about the winter weather advisory. It’s frigid outside, so please be careful if you need to travel. Let’s stay in and catch up over the phone instead.

Stay warm,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
“Frigid” conveys seriousness and can often be associated with safety concerns, making it suitable for urgent communications.

14. It’s Bone-Chillingly Cold

This phrase evokes the sensation of cold that penetrates deeply, making it suitable for dramatic descriptions.

Scenario:
Subject: Outdoor Event Cancellation

Hi Mia,

I was really looking forward to the outdoor event, but I just stepped outside, and it’s bone-chillingly cold. I think we should find a warmer venue. Let me know what you think!

Best,
Hannah

Expert Addition:
This expression effectively communicates discomfort and is often used in literary contexts for its emotional impact.