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B1 noun (plural) #10 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

chillies

Top 10

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces chillies en 30 secondes

Explication chillies in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'chillies' is a simple word used to describe a type of food. You might learn it when talking about colors (red and green) or when learning basic food vocabulary. You can think of chillies as 'hot peppers.' They are small, and they make your mouth feel hot. You might see them in a market or in a kitchen. A simple sentence would be: 'I like red chillies.' At this level, you don't need to know the different types, just that they are a vegetable that is very spicy. You should know that 'chillies' is more than one, and 'chilli' is just one. It is important to be careful with them because they can hurt your eyes if you touch them. Many people use chillies to make their food taste better. In some countries, children learn to eat chillies when they are very young, but in other countries, people only eat them when they are adults. You can find chillies in many colors like red, green, yellow, and even orange. They are very healthy and have many vitamins. When you go to a restaurant, you might see a picture of a small red chilli next to a dish. This means the food is spicy. If you see two or three chillies, it means the food is very, very spicy!

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At the A2 level, you can use 'chillies' to describe your food preferences and basic cooking steps. You might say, 'I don't like chillies because they are too hot for me,' or 'My mother uses many chillies in her cooking.' You are beginning to understand that chillies are used as an ingredient to add flavor. You can describe their appearance more clearly, using words like 'long,' 'thin,' 'fresh,' or 'dried.' You might also learn that there are different ways to prepare them, such as 'chopping' or 'adding' them to a pot. At this level, you should be aware of the spelling: 'chillies' with two 'l's is common in the UK. You might also hear people call them 'hot peppers.' When you talk about shopping, you can ask, 'How much are these chillies?' or 'Are these chillies very spicy?' It is also useful to know that chillies are common in certain types of food, like Indian or Mexican food. If you are eating with friends, you might say, 'Be careful, there are chillies in this soup!' This level is about using the word in everyday conversations about eating and cooking. You are also starting to recognize that 'chilli' can refer to the spice itself or the dish 'chili con carne,' though the spelling might change.

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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'chillies' in a variety of contexts, including following recipes and discussing cultural cuisines. You understand that 'chillies' are not just 'hot' but can have different levels of intensity. You might use the word to explain a process: 'First, you need to deseed the chillies so the dish isn't too spicy.' You can also use adjectives to describe the effect they have, such as 'pungent,' 'fiery,' or 'mild.' At this level, you are aware of the plural and singular forms and can use them correctly in sentences. You might also start to learn about specific varieties, like jalapeños or bird's eye chillies, and how they differ in taste. You can participate in a conversation about food culture, saying things like, 'In my country, we use a lot of chillies in almost every meal.' You also understand the advice associated with chillies, such as washing your hands after handling them. You might read a food blog or a menu and understand descriptions like 'infused with dried chillies' or 'garnished with fresh green chillies.' This level requires a good grasp of how chillies function as both a noun and a flavor profile in English-speaking cultures. You are also becoming more aware of the different spellings (chilli vs. chili) and when to use them.

At the B2 level, you can use 'chillies' with more precision and nuance. You understand the botanical and chemical aspects, such as the role of capsaicin and the Scoville scale. You might discuss the 'complexity' of a dish, noting how the chillies provide 'depth' or 'a lingering heat.' You can use the word in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'Had I known the chillies were that hot, I wouldn't have added so many.' You are also familiar with idiomatic uses or related terms like 'chilli flakes' or 'chilli oil.' In discussions about health or science, you might mention that 'chillies are known to stimulate the metabolism.' You can also differentiate between the various ways chillies are processed—smoked, fermented, pickled, or powdered—and how each affects the final flavor of a dish. Your vocabulary includes more descriptive verbs like 'sauté,' 'char,' 'mince,' and 'rehydrate.' You can also talk about the history of chillies, perhaps mentioning their origin in the Americas and their subsequent spread across the globe via trade routes. At this level, you should be able to write a detailed restaurant review or a recipe that uses 'chillies' as a key component, explaining exactly how they should be handled to achieve the best culinary result.

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At the C1 level, your use of the word 'chillies' is sophisticated and contextually rich. You can engage in detailed discussions about the subtle flavor profiles of different chilli varieties, using terms like 'smoky undertones,' 'fruity notes,' or 'earthy finish.' You understand the cultural significance of chillies in various global regions and can discuss how they have influenced national identities and culinary traditions. You might use 'chillies' in metaphorical or advanced descriptive contexts, such as describing a 'chilli-hot temper' or a 'blistering' critique. You are fully aware of the regional spelling variations and can adapt your writing style to suit British, American, or international audiences without error. In a professional or academic setting, you might discuss the economic impact of the chilli trade or the pharmacological applications of capsaicin extracted from chillies. You can also analyze the sensory experience of eating chillies, describing the physiological response in detail. Your ability to use collocations is advanced; you might speak of 'tempering the heat of the chillies' or 'the ubiquitous presence of chillies in street food.' You can also critique the use of chillies in a dish, perhaps arguing that 'the over-reliance on bird's eye chillies masked the delicate flavors of the seafood.' This level reflects a deep, multi-faceted understanding of the word and its place in the world.

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At the C2 level, you possess a mastery of the word 'chillies' that includes its historical, scientific, and culinary depths. You can write or speak eloquently about the 'Columbian Exchange' and how the introduction of chillies to the Old World revolutionized global gastronomy. You might explore the linguistic evolution of the word from the Nahuatl 'chīlli' to its modern English forms. Your vocabulary is vast, allowing you to discuss the 'organoleptic properties' of various Capsicum species or the 'synergistic effects' of chillies when paired with other spices like cumin or coriander. You can navigate the most technical discussions about the Scoville Heat Scale and the molecular structure of capsaicinoids. In creative writing, you might use chillies as a powerful symbol of vitality, pain, or cultural heritage. You are also adept at using the word in professional culinary criticism, perhaps discussing the 'nuanced heat' of a particular heirloom variety. You understand the most obscure references to chillies in literature or history. Your command of the word is such that you can play with its sounds and meanings, using it in puns, alliteration, or complex metaphors with ease. At this level, 'chillies' is not just a food item but a gateway to discussing history, chemistry, and the intricate tapestry of human culture. You can effortlessly switch between the informal 'hot peppers' and the formal 'Capsicum cultivars' depending on your audience.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

chillies en 30 secondes

Chillies are spicy fruits from the Capsicum genus, used globally to add heat and flavor to a vast range of culinary dishes.
The heat in chillies comes from capsaicin, a chemical that triggers pain receptors, and is measured using the Scoville Heat Scale.
Available in many varieties, chillies can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or fermented, each offering a unique level of intensity and taste.
While 'chillies' is the British spelling, 'chilies' and 'chiles' are common regional variations, all referring to these essential, pungent kitchen staples.

The term chillies refers to the pungent fruits of plants belonging to the genus Capsicum, which are members of the nightshade family, Solanaceae. Botanically, chillies are classified as berries, though in a culinary context, they are almost universally treated as vegetables or, more accurately, as a potent seasoning. The defining characteristic of chillies is their heat, which is caused by a chemical compound known as capsaicin. This compound interacts with the pain receptors in the mouth and throat, specifically the TRPV1 receptors, creating a burning sensation that many cultures have come to crave. Chillies come in an extraordinary array of shapes, sizes, colors, and potency levels, ranging from the mild and sweet bell pepper (which contains no capsaicin) to the record-breaking heat of the Carolina Reaper. When people use the word 'chillies,' they are typically referring to the smaller, spicier varieties used to add 'kick' or 'fire' to a dish. The plural form 'chillies' is the standard British English spelling, while 'chilies' is more common in American English, and 'chiles' is the preferred spelling in New Mexico and many Spanish-speaking regions. People use this word in daily life when discussing recipes, ordering food at a restaurant, or shopping at a grocery store. It is a staple word for anyone interested in global gastronomy, as chillies are foundational to the cuisines of Mexico, Thailand, India, China, and many African nations. Beyond the kitchen, chillies are discussed in scientific contexts regarding their health benefits, such as their high Vitamin C content and their ability to boost metabolism. They are also a frequent topic in competitive eating circles, where the Scoville Heat Scale is used to measure the intensity of different varieties. Whether you are dicing them for a fresh salsa, drying them for a spice rub, or fermenting them for a hot sauce, chillies are indispensable in the modern culinary landscape.

Culinary Role: Chillies act as a primary flavor enhancer, providing heat, acidity, and sometimes fruitiness or smokiness to a dish.
Botanical Classification: They are the fruit of the Capsicum plant, technically berries, though used as a spice or vegetable.
Chemical Property: The presence of capsaicin is what distinguishes chillies from other fruits, creating the 'spicy' sensation.

I decided to add two chopped chillies to the curry to give it an extra layer of heat.

The market stall was filled with baskets of vibrant red and green chillies.

Some people find that small chillies are much hotter than the larger varieties.

You should wear gloves when handling hot chillies to avoid irritating your skin.

The chef garnished the dish with a few thin slices of fresh chillies.

Using the word chillies correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a plural countable noun. In most English-speaking regions outside North America, 'chillies' is the standard plural. When constructing sentences, you will often find it paired with verbs related to preparation, such as 'chop,' 'dice,' 'deseed,' 'sauté,' or 'infuse.' For example, 'You need to finely chop the chillies before adding them to the oil.' Adjectives are also crucial when describing chillies, as they help specify the variety or the state of the fruit. Common descriptors include 'fresh,' 'dried,' 'pickled,' 'crushed,' 'mild,' 'fiery,' or 'bird's eye.' A sentence like 'The recipe calls for three dried chillies' provides specific instructions for the cook. It is also important to note the difference between 'chilli' (the fruit) and 'chili' (the American spelling or the dish 'chili con carne'). If you are writing for a British audience, 'chillies' is the way to go. If you are writing for an American audience, 'chilies' is more common. Furthermore, chillies are often used in the context of measurement. You might hear someone say, 'This sauce has a lot of chillies in it,' or 'I only used half a chilli because I don't like it too spicy.' In more formal or scientific writing, you might refer to them by their specific species, such as Capsicum annuum. In a culinary review, you might see more evocative language: 'The subtle smokiness of the dried chillies perfectly balanced the richness of the beef.' Whether you are using it as a subject ('Chillies are essential for this dish') or an object ('I love the taste of fresh chillies'), the word is versatile and straightforward. Just remember that because it is a countable noun, you should use 'many' or 'few' rather than 'much' or 'little' when referring to the quantity of individual fruits.

Preparation Verbs: Chop, mince, deseed, roast, char, grind, soak.
Descriptive Adjectives: Pungent, aromatic, blistering, searing, mild, sweet, smoky.
Grammar Tip: Use 'chillies' (plural) for multiple fruits and 'chilli' (singular) for one or as an uncountable reference to the flavor.

She carefully removed the seeds from the chillies to keep the salsa mild.

The aroma of roasting chillies filled the entire kitchen.

Are these chillies particularly hot, or can I use several of them?

You will encounter the word chillies in a variety of real-world settings, most notably in the culinary arts. If you watch popular cooking shows like MasterChef or The Great British Bake Off, you will hear chefs and contestants discussing the balance of flavors, often mentioning how the 'chillies' provide a necessary counterpoint to sweetness or fat. In a restaurant setting, particularly those serving Indian, Thai, Mexican, or Szechuan cuisine, the word appears frequently on menus and in conversations with servers. A waiter might ask, 'How many chillies would you like in your Som Tum?' or warn you that 'the chef uses very hot chillies in this particular curry.' Beyond the dining table, you will hear the word at local farmers' markets or supermarkets. Vendors might shout about the freshness of their 'red chillies' or 'green chillies.' In the world of gardening and horticulture, enthusiasts discuss the best conditions for growing 'chillies' at home, focusing on soil pH, sunlight, and watering schedules. You might also hear the word in a medical or health context. Nutritionists often speak about the benefits of 'chillies' for heart health or pain relief, as capsaicin is used in topical creams for arthritis. In pop culture, the word is sometimes used in the names of bands (like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, though they use the American spelling) or in the titles of spicy food challenges on YouTube, such as the famous Hot Ones series, where celebrities eat wings doused in sauces made from various 'chillies.' Finally, in global trade and economics, 'chillies' are discussed as a major export commodity for countries like India and Vietnam. Whether you are in a high-end kitchen, a bustling street market, or a scientific laboratory, 'chillies' is a word that carries significant weight and universal recognition.

In the Kitchen: 'Make sure to wash your hands after cutting those chillies!'
At the Market: 'Are these chillies organic, or were they grown with pesticides?'
In a Restaurant: 'Could I have some extra chillies on the side, please?'

The documentary explained how chillies were brought to Asia by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners and even native speakers make with the word chillies involves spelling. As mentioned previously, there are three main variations: 'chillies' (British), 'chilies' (American), and 'chiles' (Spanish/Southwestern US). Using the wrong version in the wrong geographical context isn't necessarily a 'error' in meaning, but it can look out of place in formal writing. Another common mistake is confusing 'chillies' with 'peppers.' While all chillies are technically peppers (members of the Capsicum genus), not all peppers are chillies. For instance, a 'bell pepper' is never called a 'chilli' because it lacks heat. Conversely, calling a 'habanero' just a 'pepper' might be too vague in a culinary context where heat level is critical. Learners also often struggle with the pluralization. Some might mistakenly say 'chillis' or 'chillys,' but the correct plural for the British spelling 'chilli' is 'chillies.' There is also the homophone confusion with the word 'chilly,' which means cold. It is a common pun in English—'This chilli is making me feel chilly'—but in serious writing, ensure you don't swap the two. Furthermore, some people use 'chilli' as an uncountable noun when they should use the plural. For example, saying 'I put three chilli in the soup' is grammatically incorrect; it should be 'three chillies.' Lastly, a common conceptual mistake is thinking that the seeds are the hottest part of the chillies. In reality, the highest concentration of capsaicin is found in the white pith (the placenta) that holds the seeds. While removing the seeds often removes the pith, it is the pith itself that carries the most fire. Understanding these nuances will help you use the word more accurately and professionally.

Spelling Confusion: Chilli (UK) vs. Chili (US) vs. Chile (Spanish). Plural: Chillies vs. Chilies vs. Chiles.
Homophone Error: Confusing 'chilli' (the spice) with 'chilly' (feeling cold).
Pluralization: Always use 'chillies' when referring to multiple individual fruits.

Incorrect: I bought some chillys at the market. Correct: I bought some chillies at the market.

When discussing chillies, it is helpful to know related terms that can serve as synonyms or more specific alternatives depending on the context. The most common broad alternative is 'peppers' or 'hot peppers.' In many parts of the world, particularly the United States, 'hot peppers' is the preferred term for what the British call 'chillies.' If you are looking for a more scientific or botanical term, 'capsicums' is used, especially in Australia and New Zealand, though this often refers to the milder bell peppers as well. For specific types of chillies, you might use their variety names: 'jalapeños,' 'habaneros,' 'serranos,' 'cayenne,' or 'thai bird's eye.' Each of these carries a different connotation of heat and flavor. For example, 'jalapeños' are generally considered moderate, while 'habaneros' are very hot and fruity. If you are talking about the dried, powdered form, you might use 'chilli powder,' 'cayenne pepper,' or 'paprika' (which is made from mild chillies). In a culinary context, if a recipe asks for chillies but you want a different form of heat, you might use 'chilli flakes' or 'red pepper flakes.' Another alternative is 'pimientos,' which is the Spanish word for peppers, often used in English to refer to the sweet, heart-shaped peppers stuffed into olives. When comparing chillies to other spices, you might distinguish them from 'black pepper' (from the Piper nigrum plant) or 'ginger,' both of which provide heat but through different chemical compounds (piperine and gingerol, respectively). Understanding these distinctions allows for more precise communication, whether you are writing a recipe, ordering food, or describing a flavor profile.

Hot Peppers: The most common American synonym. Used interchangeably in casual speech.
Capsicums: The botanical name and common term in Australia/New Zealand for all peppers.
Chilli Flakes: A dried, crushed version of chillies often used as a table condiment.

While the recipe suggests chillies, you can substitute them with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

Christopher Columbus is responsible for the name 'pepper'; he thought the spicy fruits were related to the black pepper (Piper nigrum) he was searching for in the Indies.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈtʃɪl.iz/

US /ˈtʃɪl.iz/

The stress is on the first syllable: CHILL-ies.

Rime avec

billies fillies gillies hillies lillies sillies willies pillies

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it like 'child-ies'.
Confusing it with 'chilly' (cold), though they sound the same.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.
Failing to pronounce the 'z' sound at the end.
Confusing the 'ch' sound with a 'sh' sound.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The word is easy to recognize but spelling variations can be confusing.

Écriture 3/5

Pluralization and regional spellings require attention.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but watch out for homophones.

Écoute 2/5

Easily understood in culinary contexts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

food spicy vegetable hot red

Apprends ensuite

capsaicin pungent seasoning infuse aromatic

Avancé

organoleptic cultivar scoville solanaceous trigeminal

Grammaire à connaître

Pluralization of nouns ending in -i

Chilli becomes chillies (like berry becomes berries).

Countable vs. Uncountable

Use 'many chillies' (countable) but 'much chilli powder' (uncountable).

Adjective placement

The 'hot red chillies' (opinion, color, noun).

Compound nouns

Chilli sauce, chilli oil, chilli plant.

Gerunds after prepositions

Wash your hands after [handling] chillies.

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Exemples par niveau

I see five red chillies.

I see five red [spicy fruits].

Plural noun 'chillies' follows the number 'five'.

Are these chillies hot?

Are these [spicy fruits] hot?

Question form using 'are' for plural 'chillies'.

She likes green chillies.

She likes green [spicy fruits].

Third-person singular 'likes' with plural object 'chillies'.

Do not touch the chillies.

Do not touch the [spicy fruits].

Imperative sentence with a negative 'do not'.

The chillies are on the table.

The [spicy fruits] are on the table.

Definite article 'the' used with plural 'chillies'.

I want some chillies.

I want some [spicy fruits].

Quantifier 'some' used with plural countable noun.

These chillies are very small.

These [spicy fruits] are very small.

Demonstrative adjective 'these' for plural nearby objects.

My dad grows chillies.

My dad grows [spicy fruits].

Present simple tense for a regular habit.

I bought some fresh chillies today.

I bought some [newly picked spicy fruits] today.

Adjective 'fresh' describing the noun 'chillies'.

Can you chop the chillies for me?

Can you [cut] the [spicy fruits] for me?

Request using 'can' and the verb 'chop'.

I don't put chillies in my pasta.

I don't [add] [spicy fruits] in my pasta.

Negative present simple 'don't put'.

The red chillies are hotter than the green ones.

The red [spicy fruits] are [more spicy] than the green ones.

Comparative structure 'hotter than'.

How many chillies do we need?

How many [spicy fruits] do we need?

'How many' is used for countable nouns like 'chillies'.

She added two chillies to the soup.

She [put] two [spicy fruits] into the soup.

Past simple 'added' with a specific quantity.

Wash your hands after you touch chillies.

Wash your hands after you [handle] [spicy fruits].

Time clause using 'after'.

There are many types of chillies in the world.

There are many [kinds] of [spicy fruits] in the world.

'There are' used with plural 'types' and 'chillies'.

If you remove the seeds, the chillies will be milder.

If you remove the seeds, the [spicy fruits] will be [less hot].

First conditional sentence.

I prefer using dried chillies for this particular recipe.

I prefer using [dehydrated spicy fruits] for this [specific] recipe.

Gerund 'using' after the verb 'prefer'.

The chef recommended adding some chillies to balance the sweetness.

The chef [suggested] adding some [spicy fruits] to [offset] the sweetness.

Reporting verb 'recommended' followed by a gerund.

These chillies have a very pungent aroma.

These [spicy fruits] have a very [strong, sharp] smell.

Adjective 'pungent' used to describe the smell.

I've never seen such large chillies before.

I've never seen such [big] [spicy fruits] before.

Present perfect tense with 'never' and 'such'.

Are you sure those chillies are edible?

Are you sure those [spicy fruits] are [safe to eat]?

Adjective 'edible' used in a question.

The sauce is made from fermented chillies and garlic.

The sauce is made from [aged] [spicy fruits] and garlic.

Passive voice 'is made from'.

He accidentally rubbed his eyes after cutting chillies.

He [by mistake] rubbed his eyes after [slicing] [spicy fruits].

Adverb 'accidentally' modifying the verb 'rubbed'.

The intensity of these chillies is measured on the Scoville scale.

The [strength] of these [spicy fruits] is [calculated] on the Scoville scale.

Passive voice with a technical subject.

Chillies were originally native to Central and South America.

[Spicy fruits] were [first found] in Central and South America.

Adverb 'originally' used with the past simple passive.

Despite their heat, chillies are surprisingly high in Vitamin C.

[Even though they are hot], [spicy fruits] are [very] high in Vitamin C.

Concession clause starting with 'Despite'.

The smokiness of the dried chillies complements the beef perfectly.

The [smoky flavor] of the [dehydrated spicy fruits] [goes well with] the beef.

Verb 'complements' (not 'compliments').

You can find a vast array of chillies at the international market.

You can find a [huge variety] of [spicy fruits] at the international market.

Noun phrase 'a vast array of'.

The recipe calls for bird's eye chillies, which are known for their fiery heat.

The recipe [requires] [specific small spicy fruits], which are [famous] for their [extreme] heat.

Non-defining relative clause starting with 'which'.

Handle these chillies with care, as they can cause skin irritation.

[Be careful with] these [spicy fruits], [because] they can cause skin [problems].

Conjunction 'as' used to mean 'because'.

The popularity of chillies has grown exponentially in recent decades.

The [fame] of [spicy fruits] has grown [very quickly] in recent [years].

Present perfect with the adverb 'exponentially'.

The nuanced flavors of heirloom chillies are often lost in mass-produced sauces.

The [subtle] flavors of [traditional] [spicy fruits] are often [missing] in [factory] sauces.

Passive voice with an abstract subject.

Capsaicin, the active component in chillies, has various pharmacological applications.

[The chemical], the [main part] in [spicy fruits], has [medical] uses.

Appositive phrase providing extra information about capsaicin.

The dish was an intricate tapestry of flavors, with the chillies providing a subtle back-note of heat.

The dish was a [complex mix] of flavors, with the [spicy fruits] providing a [gentle] [background] heat.

Metaphorical language 'intricate tapestry'.

Cultivating chillies requires a delicate balance of temperature and humidity.

[Growing] [spicy fruits] [needs] a [careful] balance of temperature and [moisture].

Gerund 'cultivating' acting as the subject.

The sheer variety of chillies available today is a testament to global trade.

The [huge] variety of [spicy fruits] [shows the success of] global trade.

Noun phrase 'a testament to'.

Some people have a physiological predisposition to enjoy the pain caused by chillies.

Some people are [naturally likely] to enjoy the pain [from] [spicy fruits].

Complex noun phrase 'physiological predisposition'.

The historical migration of chillies from the New World to the Old World is a fascinating study.

The [past] [movement] of [spicy fruits] from the [Americas] to [Europe/Asia] is [interesting].

Prepositional phrases 'from... to...'.

The chef's judicious use of chillies elevated the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

The chef's [wise/careful] use of [spicy fruits] [improved] the dish without [dominating] the other ingredients.

Adjective 'judicious' and verb 'elevated'.

The organoleptic properties of various chillies can range from citrusy and bright to earthy and chocolatey.

The [sensory] properties of [different] [spicy fruits] can [vary] from [lemon-like] to [dark/rich].

Technical term 'organoleptic'.

The proliferation of chillies across diverse culinary landscapes is unparalleled in the history of spices.

The [rapid spread] of [spicy fruits] across [different] [cooking styles] is [unique].

Advanced noun 'proliferation' and adjective 'unparalleled'.

One must account for the synergistic effects of chillies when combined with acidic components like lime or vinegar.

One must [consider] the [combined] effects of [spicy fruits] when [mixed] with [sour] things.

Formal pronoun 'one' and adjective 'synergistic'.

The pungency of chillies is not a taste in the traditional sense but rather a trigeminal nerve response.

The [heat] of [spicy fruits] is not a [flavor] but a [nerve] response.

Correlative conjunction 'not... but rather'.

The genetic diversification of chillies has led to an astonishing array of phenotypes.

The [biological] [change] of [spicy fruits] has led to [many] [physical forms].

Scientific terminology 'phenotypes'.

The cultural semiotics of the chilli often link it to concepts of masculinity and endurance.

The [cultural symbols] of the [spicy fruit] often [connect] it to [manhood] and [strength].

Academic term 'semiotics'.

The chef sought to exploit the volatile aromatic compounds found in fresh chillies.

The chef [tried] to [use] the [unstable] [smell] compounds in [new] [spicy fruits].

Verb 'exploit' used in a neutral/technical sense.

The ubiquitous nature of chillies in modern gastronomy belies their relatively recent introduction to many regions.

The [everywhere] nature of [spicy fruits] in [modern cooking] [hides the fact of] their [new] introduction.

Verb 'belies' meaning to contradict or give a false impression.

Collocations courantes

fresh chillies

dried chillies

finely chopped chillies

red chillies

green chillies

chilli flakes

chilli powder

hot chillies

mild chillies

deseeded chillies

Phrases Courantes

kick of chilli

— A small amount of spice that adds excitement to a dish.

This chocolate cake has a surprising kick of chilli.

chilli-hot

— Extremely hot, like the sensation of eating a chilli.

The weather today is chilli-hot!

crushed chillies

— Chillies that have been broken into small pieces, often dried.

I always keep a jar of crushed chillies in the cupboard.

bird's eye chillies

— A specific, very spicy variety of small chilli.

She added three bird's eye chillies to the stir-fry.

chilli oil

— Oil that has been infused with the heat and flavor of chillies.

Drizzle some chilli oil over your dumplings.

chilli sauce

— A liquid condiment made primarily from chillies.

Do you want sweet or spicy chilli sauce?

stuffed chillies

— Chillies that have been filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Stuffed chillies are a popular appetizer in many cultures.

roasted chillies

— Chillies that have been cooked over fire or in an oven to enhance flavor.

The roasted chillies gave the salsa a smoky taste.

pickled chillies

— Chillies preserved in vinegar, often served as a garnish.

I love the tang of pickled chillies on my burger.

chilli heat

— The specific burning sensation caused by eating chillies.

The chilli heat was almost too much to handle.

Souvent confondu avec

chillies vs chilly

An adjective meaning cold. Sounds the same but spelled differently.

chillies vs chili

Often refers to the American dish 'chili con carne' or the US spelling of the fruit.

chillies vs peppers

A broad term that includes non-spicy bell peppers.

Expressions idiomatiques

"red hot"

— Extremely hot, popular, or successful.

That new restaurant is red hot right now.

informal

"spice things up"

— To make something more exciting or interesting.

We decided to spice things up by going on a last-minute trip.

neutral

"full of beans"

— Full of energy (sometimes confused with 'full of spice').

The kids were full of beans after the party.

informal

"hot under the collar"

— Angry or embarrassed.

He got a bit hot under the collar when they questioned his work.

neutral

"the spice of life"

— Variety makes life interesting.

They say variety is the spice of life.

neutral

"too hot to handle"

— Something that is too difficult or dangerous to deal with.

That political issue is too hot to handle right now.

informal

"fire in the belly"

— Strong ambition or passion.

The young athlete has a real fire in her belly.

neutral

"burn one's bridges"

— To destroy one's path back to a previous situation.

Don't burn your bridges when you leave this job.

neutral

"play with fire"

— To take dangerous risks.

Investing all your money in one stock is playing with fire.

neutral

"add fuel to the fire"

— To make a bad situation even worse.

His comments only added fuel to the fire.

neutral

Facile à confondre

chillies vs chilly

Homophone

'Chilly' is an adjective meaning cold; 'chillies' is a plural noun for spicy fruits.

It's a chilly day, so I'm making a soup with hot chillies.

chillies vs chili

Spelling variation

'Chili' is American; 'chilli' is British. 'Chili' also refers to the meat stew.

I ordered a bowl of chili with extra chilies.

chillies vs capsicum

Synonym/Related term

'Capsicum' is the botanical genus; in Australia, it often means bell peppers.

The capsicum is mild, but these chillies are hot.

chillies vs pepper

Generalization

'Pepper' can mean black pepper (spice) or bell peppers (vegetable).

I added black pepper and two red chillies.

chillies vs pimiento

Language loan

Spanish for pepper; usually refers to sweet, red peppers in English.

These pimientos are sweet, unlike those spicy chillies.

Structures de phrases

I like [color] chillies.

I like red chillies.

Can you [verb] the chillies?

Can you chop the chillies?

If you [verb], the chillies will be [adjective].

If you deseed them, the chillies will be milder.

The [noun] of the chillies [verb] the dish.

The smokiness of the chillies complements the dish.

Despite their [noun], chillies are [adjective].

Despite their heat, chillies are nutritious.

The [adjective] nature of chillies [verb] [noun].

The ubiquitous nature of chillies belies their history.

I prefer [verb-ing] chillies to [noun].

I prefer adding chillies to using pepper.

It is [adjective] to [verb] chillies with [noun].

It is advisable to handle chillies with gloves.

Famille de mots

Noms

chilli

chillies

chili

chile

capsicum

capsaicin

Verbes

chill (unrelated)

spice

Adjectifs

chilli-flavored

spicy

pungent

fiery

Apparenté

pepper

paprika

cayenne

jalapeño

habanero

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in culinary and daily life contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Spelling it 'chillys'. → chillies
The plural of 'chilli' follows the standard rule of changing '-i' to '-ies'. 'Chilly' is an adjective meaning cold.
Thinking seeds are the source of heat. → The white pith (placenta) is the source.
While seeds are often coated in capsaicin, the white membrane they are attached to contains the highest concentration of heat.
Using 'much' with chillies. → How many chillies?
Chillies are a countable noun, so you should use 'many' or 'few', not 'much' or 'little'.
Washing hands with only water after cutting. → Use soap or oil.
Capsaicin is an oil and does not dissolve in water. Soap or even rubbing your hands with a little vegetable oil first helps break it down.
Confusing 'chilli' with 'chili con carne'. → Use 'chilli' for the fruit and 'chili' for the dish (in UK English).
In British English, the distinction helps clarify whether you are talking about the ingredient or the specific meat stew.

Astuces

Wear Gloves

When handling extremely hot chillies like habaneros or ghost peppers, it is wise to wear disposable gloves. The oils can stay on your skin for hours and cause intense burning if you touch your eyes or face.

Control the Heat

If you want the flavor of chillies without too much heat, remove the seeds and the white inner membranes. This allows the fruity and aromatic qualities of the chilli to shine through without overwhelming the palate.

Dry Your Own

If you have too many fresh chillies, you can easily dry them by stringing them together and hanging them in a dry, airy place. Once dried, they can be stored in airtight jars for a long time and used whenever needed.

Dairy is Key

Always have milk or yogurt nearby when serving a very spicy meal. It is the most effective way to neutralize the capsaicin burn for guests who might find the chillies too intense.

Roast for Depth

Try roasting your chillies over an open flame until the skin chars. Peeling off the burnt skin leaves you with a smoky, sweet, and tender chilli that adds incredible depth to salsas and sauces.

Stress the Plant

Some gardeners believe that slightly underwatering chilli plants when the fruits are forming can actually make the chillies hotter. The plant produces more capsaicin as a defense mechanism when it is under stress.

Fine Mincing

For a more even distribution of heat in a dish, mince your chillies very finely. This prevents someone from accidentally biting into a large, overwhelmingly spicy chunk of chilli.

Vitamin Boost

Add fresh chillies to your salads or stir-fries for an easy boost of Vitamin C. One small chilli can contain more Vitamin C than an entire orange!

Know Your Varieties

If a recipe calls for a specific chilli you can't find, look up its Scoville rating and substitute it with something similar. For example, a serrano pepper is a good substitute for a jalapeño if you want a bit more heat.

Warn Your Guests

When serving a dish with hidden chillies, always warn your guests. What is 'mild' to you might be 'unbearable' to someone else, and it's polite to let them know before they take a big bite.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Chillies' as 'Chill-ies'—but they are the opposite of 'chill' (cold)! They are hot!

Association visuelle

Imagine a small red fire extinguisher shaped like a chilli. It looks cool but contains fire.

Word Web

Spicy Red Green Heat Cooking Capsaicin Scoville Pepper

Défi

Try to find five different types of chillies in your local market and write down their names and how hot they are.

Origine du mot

The word comes from the Nahuatl (Aztec) word 'chīlli', which was used to describe the plant and its fruit in Central Mexico.

Sens originel : The fruit of the Capsicum plant.

Uto-Aztecan (Nahuatl) via Spanish.

Contexte culturel

Be aware that some people have severe allergies or sensitivities to capsaicin. Always inform guests if a dish contains very hot chillies.

In the UK, 'chilli' is the standard spelling. In the US, 'chili' is more common, especially when referring to the stew.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers (American rock band) The Scoville Scale (scientific measurement of heat) Hot Ones (popular YouTube interview show)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Cooking a meal

Chop the chillies
Deseed the chillies
Sauté the chillies
Add a pinch of chillies

Ordering at a restaurant

Is it very spicy?
Can I have extra chillies?
No chillies, please
How many chillies?

Shopping at a market

Are these chillies fresh?
How much for the chillies?
Which chillies are the mildest?
I'll take a bag of chillies

Gardening

Growing chillies at home
Chilli plant care
When to harvest chillies
Chilli seeds

Health and Nutrition

Benefits of chillies
Chillies and metabolism
Capsaicin in chillies
Vitamins in chillies

Amorces de conversation

"Do you enjoy eating food with a lot of chillies, or do you prefer mild flavors?"

"What is the hottest dish you have ever eaten that contained chillies?"

"Have you ever tried growing your own chillies in a garden or on a windowsill?"

"Which country do you think uses chillies in the most interesting way?"

"Do you have a favorite type of chilli, like jalapeño or habanero?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you ate something with too many chillies. How did you react, and what did you do to cool down?

Write a recipe for your favorite spicy dish, explaining exactly how to prepare the chillies.

Reflect on why some people love the 'pain' of eating hot chillies while others avoid them entirely.

If you were to create a new type of chilli-based sauce, what ingredients would you mix with the chillies?

Discuss the importance of chillies in your local culture or a culture you are interested in.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Chillies contain a chemical called capsaicin. When you eat them, capsaicin binds to pain receptors in your mouth that normally detect heat, sending a signal to your brain that something is burning. This is why we feel a 'heat' sensation even though the fruit isn't actually hot in temperature.

The best way is to consume dairy products like milk, yogurt, or sour cream. Capsaicin is a non-polar molecule and dissolves in fats and oils. The protein casein in dairy helps break the bond between capsaicin and your pain receptors, providing relief. Water is polar and will only spread the capsaicin around.

Generally, yes. Red chillies are usually the fully ripened version of green chillies. As they ripen, they often develop more capsaicin and a sweeter, more complex flavor. However, this depends on the specific variety; some green chillies can still be much hotter than other red varieties.

Yes, chillies freeze very well. You can freeze them whole, sliced, or even as a paste. Freezing them preserves their heat and flavor for several months, though the texture may become slightly softer once thawed. This is a great way to save a large harvest.

This is a common myth. The seeds themselves contain very little capsaicin. The highest concentration of heat is found in the white internal membranes (the pith or placenta) to which the seeds are attached. Removing the seeds usually involves removing this pith, which is why the heat is reduced.

The heat is measured using the Scoville Heat Scale, expressed in Scoville Heat Units (SHU). It was originally based on a human taste test but is now measured more accurately using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to determine the exact concentration of capsaicinoids.

Yes, chillies are very healthy. They are packed with vitamins A, C, and E. They also contain antioxidants and have been linked to improved heart health, boosted metabolism, and even pain relief when used in topical creams. Some studies suggest they can also help lower blood pressure.

The difference is primarily regional. 'Chilli' (with two Ls) is the standard spelling in British English and most Commonwealth countries. 'Chili' (with one L) is the standard spelling in American English. Both refer to the same spicy fruit, though 'chili' also refers to the American stew.

Absolutely! Chillies are well-suited for indoor growing as long as they have a very sunny windowsill or grow lights. They need warm temperatures and consistent watering. Many people grow ornamental or small chilli varieties like 'Thai Hot' or 'Habanero' in pots inside their homes.

Tolerance to chillies is built up over time. Frequent exposure to capsaicin desensitizes the pain receptors in the mouth, allowing people to enjoy hotter chillies without extreme discomfort. There may also be a genetic component to how sensitive a person's receptors are initially.

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