In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe intense heat in weather, bodies, or objects.
- A polite, clear way to say someone has a fever.
- Common in scientific, medical, and everyday weather contexts.
Meaning
This phrase refers to a measurement of heat that is significantly above average. You use it to talk about the weather, a fever, or even the setting on your oven.
Key Examples
3 of 6Checking on a sick friend
You look a bit flushed; do you have a high temperature?
You look a bit flushed; do you have a high temperature?
Discussing the summer weather
The forecast predicts a high temperature of 40 degrees today.
The forecast predicts a high temperature of 40 degrees today.
Reading a cooking recipe
Sear the steak at a high temperature to lock in the juices.
Sear the steak at a high temperature to lock in the juices.
Cultural Background
A high temperature is a standard reason for missing work. Oven settings are standardized globally.
Precision
Use 'high temperature' when you want to sound professional.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe intense heat in weather, bodies, or objects.
- A polite, clear way to say someone has a fever.
- Common in scientific, medical, and everyday weather contexts.
What It Means
High temperature is a straightforward way to say something is very hot. It describes the physical state of the air, an object, or a person's body. Think of it as the opposite of a low temperature. It is clear, logical, and easy to understand.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase as a noun. It often follows verbs like have, reach, or record. For example, you might say, "The oven reached a high temperature quickly." If you are sick, you might tell a friend, "I have a high temperature today." It sounds a bit more clinical than saying "I have a fever," but everyone will understand you. Just don't use it to describe spicy food—that is hot or spicy, not a high temperature!
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be specific about heat levels. It is perfect for weather reports or scientific discussions. It works well in professional settings like a kitchen or a laboratory. You can also use it when talking to a doctor about your health. It feels natural when you are reading a manual for an appliance.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this phrase to describe a person's personality. If someone is angry, they are hot-headed, not high temperature. Don't use it for romantic attraction either. Saying someone is high temperature sounds like they need a doctor, not a date! Also, remember that boiling is better for water, and scorching is better for a very sunny day.
Cultural Background
In many English-speaking cultures, talking about the weather is the ultimate icebreaker. Mentioning a high temperature is a safe way to start a conversation with a stranger. In the US, people use Fahrenheit, while almost everywhere else uses Celsius. This often leads to total confusion during international travel!
Common Variations
You will often hear people say running a temp when they are sick. In weather contexts, people might say record highs instead. In technical manuals, you might see extreme heat. If you want to sound more casual with friends, just say "It's roasting!" or "I'm burning up!"
Usage Notes
This phrase is safe for all contexts. It is the most common way to describe heat objectively. Just remember to use 'high' and not 'large' or 'big'.
Precision
Use 'high temperature' when you want to sound professional.
Examples
6You look a bit flushed; do you have a high temperature?
You look a bit flushed; do you have a high temperature?
A gentle way to ask if someone has a fever.
The forecast predicts a high temperature of 40 degrees today.
The forecast predicts a high temperature of 40 degrees today.
Standard way to discuss daily weather peaks.
Sear the steak at a high temperature to lock in the juices.
Sear the steak at a high temperature to lock in the juices.
Instructional use for culinary heat settings.
The server shut down due to an unexpectedly high temperature.
The server shut down due to an unexpectedly high temperature.
Formal/technical explanation for equipment failure.
Is it just me, or is the high temperature in here melting my brain?
Is it just me, or is the high temperature in here melting my brain?
Using hyperbole to complain about a warm room.
My daughter has had a high temperature since last night.
My daughter has had a high temperature since last night.
Clear communication of symptoms in a medical context.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank.
The doctor said I have a ______.
High temperature is the correct collocation for a fever.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'High Temperature'
Using 'burning up' or 'roasting'.
I'm roasting in here!
The standard phrase 'high temperature'.
He has a high temperature.
Scientific or medical terminology.
The patient exhibits pyrexia.
Where to use 'High Temperature'
At the Doctor
Checking for a fever
Weather Forecast
Summer heat warnings
The Kitchen
Oven settings for baking
IT Support
Computer overheating
Practice Bank
1 exercisesThe doctor said I have a ______.
High temperature is the correct collocation for a fever.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, a high temperature is a fever.
Related Phrases
fever
synonymBody heat