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temperatures

B1 noun #10 most common 12 min read

temperatures

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips temperatures in 30 Seconds

Explanation temperatures in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn that 'temperatures' is about how hot or cold something is. You usually hear this when people talk about the weather. For example, 'The temperatures are high today' means it is a hot day. You might see a picture of a sun or a snowflake next to this word. It is the plural of 'temperature.' You use it when you talk about more than one day or more than one place. For example, 'The temperatures in London and Paris are different.' It is a simple word to help you describe the world around you. You should remember that it ends with 's' because it is plural. When you use 'temperatures,' you should use 'are' not 'is.' This is a very important rule for beginners. You will see this word on your phone's weather app every morning. It helps you decide what clothes to wear. If the temperatures are low, you wear a coat. If the temperatures are high, you wear a T-shirt. It is one of the first 'science' words you will learn in English.

At the A2 level, you start to use 'temperatures' to describe your daily life and routines. You might use it when talking about cooking, like 'The temperatures for baking bread are very high.' You also learn more adjectives to go with it, such as 'warm,' 'cool,' 'hot,' and 'cold.' You understand that 'temperatures' refers to a group of measurements. For instance, if you look at a weather forecast for the week, you see many different numbers. These are the 'weekly temperatures.' You can also use it to talk about your health. If you have a fever, the doctor might check your 'temperatures' over a few hours to see if you are getting better. You are becoming more comfortable with the plural form and you know that it needs a plural verb. You might also learn the word 'average.' An 'average temperature' is a middle number. You can say, 'The average temperatures in my city are 20 degrees in summer.' This helps you give more information when you speak to people about where you live.

As a B1 learner, you use 'temperatures' in more complex ways, especially when discussing travel, the environment, and technical topics. You understand that 'temperatures' can 'fluctuate,' 'rise,' or 'fall.' You can describe a range of measurements, such as 'The temperatures fluctuated between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius.' You also start to see this word in news reports about climate change. You might read about 'rising global temperatures' and understand that this refers to a serious environmental issue. In this stage, you are expected to use the word accurately in writing. You know the difference between 'temperature' (one measurement) and 'temperatures' (many measurements or a range). You can also use it in a professional context, like discussing the 'operating temperatures' of a computer or a car engine. You are starting to use more advanced collocations like 'extreme temperatures' or 'mild temperatures.' This word is no longer just about the weather; it is a tool for describing data and trends in the world around you.

At the B2 level, you use 'temperatures' with a high degree of precision. You are comfortable using it in academic or professional discussions. You might talk about 'ambient temperatures' in a laboratory or 'surface temperatures' of a planet in an astronomy class. You understand the nuance of using the plural to imply a set of data or a comparative study. For example, you might write an essay comparing the 'seasonal temperatures' of two different regions and how they affect local agriculture. You also use more sophisticated verbs like 'plummet,' 'soar,' 'stabilize,' or 'plateau' to describe how temperatures change. You are aware of the stylistic use of the word in journalism, such as 'record-breaking temperatures.' Your grammar is consistent, and you never make mistakes with subject-verb agreement. You can also discuss the 'impact of fluctuating temperatures' on various systems, showing that you can use the word as part of a complex noun phrase. You are ready to use this word in almost any context, from a casual chat to a formal presentation.

At the C1 level, your use of 'temperatures' is nuanced and sophisticated. You recognize the word's role in complex scientific and socio-political discourses. You might use it when discussing the 'thermal inertia' of the oceans or the 'diurnal temperature variations' in a desert, where 'temperatures' is the underlying concept. You understand how the word functions in idiomatic or metaphorical contexts, even if the word itself isn't an idiom. For example, you might describe a political situation as having 'rising temperatures,' meaning it is becoming more tense. You are capable of analyzing data sets involving 'historical temperatures' to draw conclusions about long-term trends. Your vocabulary includes highly specific collocations like 'sub-zero temperatures,' 'incandescent temperatures,' or 'cryogenic temperatures.' You can switch between formal scientific registers and more descriptive, literary registers with ease. You use the word to add precision to your arguments, ensuring that you are clearly distinguishing between a single data point and a broader trend. Your mastery of the word allows you to communicate complex ideas about physics, geography, and sociology effectively.

At the C2 level, you have a complete and effortless command of the word 'temperatures.' You use it with the same flexibility as a native speaker, often in highly specialized or creative ways. You might encounter the word in advanced thermodynamics, discussing 'absolute temperatures' and the Kelvin scale, or in high-level climate modeling where 'proxy temperatures' are used to estimate ancient climates. You are sensitive to the rhythmic and stylistic qualities of the word in literature, using it to set a mood or create a vivid description of an environment. You can effortlessly integrate the word into complex grammatical structures, such as 'Notwithstanding the extreme temperatures, the expedition pushed forward.' You understand the historical etymology of the word and how its meaning has evolved from a general 'mixture' to a specific 'degree of heat.' Your usage is flawless, and you can explain the subtle differences between 'temperatures' and its synonyms to others. At this level, the word is a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic toolkit, used to convey precise meaning, emotional tone, and scientific accuracy in any situation.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

temperatures in 30 Seconds

Temperatures is the plural form of temperature, used to describe multiple measurements of heat or cold across different times, locations, or objects.
It is a countable noun that requires plural verbs and is frequently used in weather forecasting, scientific data, cooking, and medical contexts.
Common adjectives used with temperatures include high, low, extreme, mild, average, and soaring, helping to provide a clear picture of the thermal state.
Understanding the use of temperatures allows for more precise comparisons and the ability to describe trends and fluctuations in various professional and daily scenarios.

The word temperatures is the plural form of 'temperature,' and it serves a vital role in describing the variability of thermal conditions. While the singular form often refers to a specific measurement at a single moment, the plural form is almost always used when we are discussing a range, a collection of data points, or a comparison between different times and places. For example, when a weather reporter discusses the forecast for the upcoming week, they will refer to 'weekly temperatures' because they are summarizing a set of different high and low points. This distinction is crucial for learners to grasp because it shifts the focus from a static state to a dynamic or comparative context.

Climatological Context: In environmental science, we use this plural noun to describe the shifting patterns of the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists track global temperatures over decades to identify trends in climate change. By using the plural, they acknowledge that the heat levels in the Arctic are different from those in the Sahara, yet they are all part of a collective dataset being analyzed.

Record-breaking temperatures were recorded across southern Europe during the peak of the July heatwave.

Beyond the weather, the term is frequently applied in industrial and culinary settings. In a professional kitchen, a chef must monitor the temperatures of various ovens and refrigerators simultaneously to ensure food safety. Here, the plural emphasizes the multiplicity of the equipment being managed. Similarly, in a laboratory, a chemist might record the temperatures at which different chemical reactions occur. Each substance has its own boiling or freezing point, and when these are discussed together, the plural form is the only grammatically correct choice.

Health and Medicine: Medical professionals often track a patient's temperatures over a 24-hour period to see if a fever is 'spiking' or 'breaking.' If a nurse says, 'We are monitoring her temperatures,' it implies a continuous process of checking the patient's heat levels multiple times to find a pattern of recovery or illness.

The nurse noted that the patient's temperatures had finally stabilized after the administration of antibiotics.

In everyday conversation, you will hear people use this word when complaining about the variability of the seasons. Someone might say, 'I hate the spring because the temperatures are so unpredictable; it is freezing in the morning and boiling by the afternoon.' This usage highlights the contrast between different moments in the day. It is also common in technical manuals for cars or electronics, where 'operating temperatures' refers to the safe range of heat within which a machine can function without sustaining damage.

Industrial Engineering: Engineers must account for extreme temperatures when designing bridges and skyscrapers. Materials like steel and concrete expand and contract based on the temperatures they are exposed to, requiring specific 'expansion joints' to prevent structural failure during seasonal shifts.

The spacecraft was designed to withstand the blistering temperatures of atmospheric reentry.

Ocean temperatures have been rising steadily, affecting marine biodiversity and coral reef health.

Ultimately, 'temperatures' is a word about variety and measurement. It allows us to speak collectively about the heat of the world, whether we are talking about the cold of the poles, the heat of the tropics, or the specific settings required to bake a perfect loaf of bread. It is a bridge between a simple feeling of 'hot' or 'cold' and the precise, data-driven language of science and modern life.

Using 'temperatures' correctly requires an understanding of subject-verb agreement and the adjectives that commonly modify it. Because it is a plural noun, it must always be paired with plural verbs like 'are,' 'were,' 'have,' or 'fluctuate.' A common error for B1 learners is saying 'The temperatures is high,' which is grammatically incorrect. Instead, one must say 'The temperatures are high.' This section will explore the various ways to integrate this word into your writing and speech, focusing on collocations and descriptive phrases.

Describing Change: When temperatures change, we use specific verbs to indicate the speed and direction of that change. 'Soaring' or 'plummeting' temperatures suggest a rapid and dramatic shift, while 'gradually rising' or 'steadily falling' suggest a slower process. Using these descriptive verbs adds a level of sophistication to your English.

During the winter months, temperatures in the mountains often drop well below zero at night.

Adjectives play a massive role in how we use 'temperatures.' We often categorize them as 'extreme,' 'mild,' 'average,' or 'seasonal.' If you are describing a vacation, you might say, 'We enjoyed the mild temperatures of the Mediterranean spring.' If you are discussing a natural disaster, you might mention 'the scorching temperatures that fueled the wildfires.' These adjectives help the listener visualize the intensity of the heat or cold being discussed.

Comparative Structures: The plural form is ideal for comparisons. You can compare the temperatures of two different cities or the temperatures of the same city in different years. Phrases like 'higher than average temperatures' or 'lower than normal temperatures' are standard in both casual and academic English.

The temperatures this summer have been significantly higher than those recorded last year.

In technical writing, 'temperatures' is often part of a compound noun or a complex phrase. Terms like 'ambient temperatures' (the temperature of the surrounding environment) or 'surface temperatures' (the heat level on the outside of an object) are essential for engineering and physics. When writing about these topics, ensure that your modifiers accurately describe which specific measurements you are referring to.

Engineers must monitor the internal temperatures of the reactor to prevent overheating.

Idiomatic and Phrasal Usage: While 'temperatures' itself isn't usually part of many idioms, it is often used with phrasal verbs. We talk about temperatures 'going up,' 'coming down,' or 'leveling off.' These are informal but very common ways to describe thermal trends in daily life.

As the sun set, the temperatures began to dip, making the evening air crisp and cool.

To master this word, practice writing sentences that involve a comparison or a range. Instead of saying 'It was hot yesterday and today,' try saying 'The temperatures over the last two days have been uncomfortably high.' This elevates your language and demonstrates a better grasp of English noun usage.

The word 'temperatures' is ubiquitous in modern life, appearing in everything from morning news broadcasts to high-level scientific journals. Understanding where you are likely to encounter it helps in recognizing the register and tone associated with its use. In most cases, it is a neutral or formal term, though it is frequently used in casual conversation about the weather.

The Daily Weather Forecast: This is the most common place to hear the word. Meteorologists use it to describe the highs and lows of the day. You will hear phrases like 'Expect daytime temperatures to reach the mid-30s' or 'Overnight temperatures will hover around freezing.' In this context, the plural is used because the forecast covers a range of times.

'And now for the five-day forecast: we will see a gradual increase in temperatures as the week progresses.'

In the world of environmental activism and news, 'temperatures' is a keyword. When discussing global warming, reporters often speak about 'rising global temperatures' or 'record-breaking ocean temperatures.' Here, the word carries a weight of urgency and scientific evidence. It is rarely used in the singular in these discussions because the phenomenon affects the entire planet across all its diverse climates.

The Workplace and Industry: If you work in a factory, a kitchen, or a lab, you will hear this word constantly. Safety briefings often include warnings about 'high operating temperatures' of machinery. In an office setting, employees might debate the 'indoor temperatures,' often complaining that the air conditioning is too cold or the heating is too high.

The safety manual states that the machine should not be operated if ambient temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius.

In healthcare, as mentioned before, 'temperatures' is used when discussing a patient's vital signs. A doctor might ask a nurse, 'What have his temperatures been like since this morning?' This indicates a request for a summary of all the readings taken throughout the day. It is a standard part of medical jargon that implies a history of data rather than a single snapshot.

The wine cellar is climate-controlled to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the year.

Finally, you will hear it in the travel industry. Travel agents or brochures often highlight the 'average temperatures' of a destination to help travelers decide when to visit. 'Enjoy the warm temperatures of the Caribbean in December' is a classic marketing line. In all these instances, the word 'temperatures' serves as a tool for planning, safety, and understanding the world around us.

Even though 'temperatures' is a relatively straightforward word, learners often make specific errors regarding its number (singular vs. plural), its confusion with related words like 'weather' or 'heat,' and its grammatical collocations. Identifying these mistakes early can significantly improve your fluency and accuracy.

Singular vs. Plural Confusion: The most frequent mistake is using the singular 'temperature' when referring to a range or a collection of data. If you say 'The temperature in July are high,' you have two errors: the noun is singular but the verb is plural. Correct: 'The temperatures in July are high' or 'The temperature in July is high.' Use the plural when you mean 'the various levels of heat throughout the month.'

Incorrect: The temperatures is rising.
Correct: The temperatures are rising.

Another common error is confusing 'temperatures' with 'weather.' Weather is a broad term that includes rain, wind, and sun. Temperatures specifically refer to the degree of heat. You shouldn't say 'The temperatures are rainy today.' Instead, say 'The weather is rainy, and the temperatures are low.' Keeping these concepts distinct is essential for clear communication.

Confusing 'Heat' and 'Temperatures': 'Heat' is an uncountable noun referring to the energy or the sensation of being hot. 'Temperatures' are the measurements of that heat. You can feel the heat, but you read the temperatures. Don't say 'The temperatures were so strong today.' Use 'The heat was so strong' or 'The temperatures were so high.'

Incorrect: We had many temperatures last summer.
Correct: We had many days of high temperatures last summer.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'degree.' Temperatures are measured *in* degrees. A common mistake is saying 'The temperatures are 30 degrees.' While this is often accepted in casual speech, it is more precise to say 'The temperature is 30 degrees' (referring to a single point) or 'Temperatures reached 30 degrees' (referring to the peak of a range). When using the plural 'temperatures,' you are usually implying a variety of readings, so saying 'Temperatures ranged from 20 to 30 degrees' is the most accurate structure.

Incorrect: The temperatures of the water is cold.
Correct: The temperatures of the different pools vary.

By paying attention to these nuances—verb agreement, conceptual distinction from 'weather' and 'heat,' and the proper use of 'degrees'—you will avoid the most common pitfalls and speak about the thermal world with the precision of a native speaker.

While 'temperatures' is the standard term for measured heat levels, English offers several synonyms and related terms that can provide more variety or precision depending on the context. Understanding the subtle differences between these words will help you choose the right one for your specific situation.

Climate vs. Temperatures: 'Climate' refers to the long-term patterns of weather in a region, including temperatures, humidity, and rainfall. While 'temperatures' are a component of climate, they are not the same thing. Use 'climate' when discussing the general nature of a place (e.g., 'a tropical climate') and 'temperatures' when discussing the specific heat measurements.

The region's arid climate is characterized by extreme daytime temperatures and very little rain.

Another alternative is 'thermal conditions.' This is a more formal and scientific term often used in engineering or architecture. It refers to the overall state of heat and cooling in a space. If you are writing a technical report about a building's efficiency, you might use 'thermal conditions' instead of 'temperatures' to sound more professional.

Heat and Warmth: 'Heat' is often used as a synonym for high temperatures, but it is more about the sensation. 'Warmth' is a positive, comfortable version of heat. You wouldn't say 'The temperatures of the fire were nice'; you would say 'The warmth of the fire was nice.' Use 'temperatures' for data and 'warmth' or 'heat' for feelings.

We sought relief from the intense heat as temperatures climbed toward 40 degrees.

In meteorology, you might hear the term 'mercury.' This is an old-fashioned way of referring to the temperature, based on the mercury used in traditional thermometers. Phrases like 'the mercury is rising' mean the temperatures are going up. While less common in scientific papers today, it is still frequently used in journalism and literature for stylistic flair.

As the temperatures plummeted, the mercury in the old thermometer hit its lowest point in years.

Lastly, 'degrees' is often used metonymically for temperatures. Someone might say, 'The degrees are going up,' though this is quite informal. It is better to stick to 'temperatures' when you want to be clear. By choosing between 'climate,' 'thermal conditions,' 'heat,' and 'temperatures,' you can tailor your language to be as casual or as professional as the situation requires.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

In the 16th century, 'temperature' could refer to a person's personality (their 'temperament') just as much as it referred to the weather. The scientific meaning we use today didn't become standard until the 17th century.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtem.prə.tʃəz/

US /ˈtem.pər.ə.tʃʊrz/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: TEM-per-a-tures.

Rhymes With

lectures structures conjectures punctures vultures cultures fixtures mixtures

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'tem-pe-ra-TURES' with stress on the last syllable.
Adding an extra 'i' sound: 'tem-per-a-tui-res'.
Failing to pronounce the 's' at the end for the plural form.
Confusing the 'ch' sound with a hard 't' sound.
Mumbling the middle syllables so it sounds like 'temp-chers'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, especially in weather reports.

Writing 4/5

Requires attention to plural subject-verb agreement.

Speaking 4/5

The pronunciation can be tricky due to the compressed syllables.

Listening 3/5

Commonly heard, but can be spoken quickly in news broadcasts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Hot Cold Weather Degree Sun

Learn Next

Climate Atmosphere Humidity Fluctuation Meteorology

Advanced

Thermodynamics Convection Isothermal Gradient Equilibrium

Grammar to Know

Subject-Verb Agreement with Plural Nouns

The temperatures ARE high (not IS high).

Using 'Between' for Ranges

Temperatures fluctuated BETWEEN 20 and 30 degrees.

Adjective Placement

We experienced EXTREME temperatures (Adjective before Noun).

Using 'Than' for Comparisons

Temperatures today are higher THAN they were yesterday.

The Definite Article with Specific Sets

THE temperatures recorded in the study were accurate.

Examples by Level

The temperatures are very high in summer.

Las temperaturas son muy altas en verano.

Use 'are' because 'temperatures' is plural.

Winter temperatures are often cold.

Las temperaturas de invierno suelen ser frías.

The adjective 'cold' describes the temperatures.

What are the temperatures today?

¿Cuáles son las temperaturas hoy?

This is a question using the plural form.

The temperatures in the morning are cool.

Las temperaturas por la mañana son frescas.

The phrase 'in the morning' specifies the time.

I like warm temperatures.

Me gustan las temperaturas cálidas.

'Warm' is a common adjective for temperatures.

The temperatures are 20 degrees.

Las temperaturas son de 20 grados.

Degrees are the unit of measurement for temperatures.

Low temperatures mean it is freezing.

Las temperaturas bajas significan que está helando.

'Low' is the opposite of 'high' for temperatures.

Are the temperatures rising?

¿Están subiendo las temperaturas?

The verb 'rising' indicates an increase.

The average temperatures in May are perfect for hiking.

Las temperaturas medias en mayo son perfectas para hacer senderismo.

'Average' refers to the typical range.

We need to check the oven temperatures for the cake.

Necesitamos revisar las temperaturas del horno para el pastel.

Plural because there might be different settings or zones.

The temperatures dropped quickly after the storm.

Las temperaturas bajaron rápidamente después de la tormenta.

'Dropped' is a past tense verb for decreasing.

Do you prefer hot or cold temperatures?

¿Prefieres las temperaturas calurosas o frías?

Using 'or' to offer a choice between two types.

The temperatures in the desert change a lot at night.

Las temperaturas en el desierto cambian mucho por la noche.

The verb 'change' shows variability.

The nurse recorded the patient's temperatures every hour.

La enfermera registró las temperaturas del paciente cada hora.

Plural implies a series of measurements.

High temperatures can be dangerous for elderly people.

Las altas temperaturas pueden ser peligrosas para las personas mayores.

'Can be' expresses a possibility or risk.

The temperatures were much lower last week.

Las temperaturas fueron mucho más bajas la semana pasada.

'Much lower' is a comparative structure.

Temperatures fluctuated wildly during the spring months.

Las temperaturas fluctuaron salvajemente durante los meses de primavera.

'Fluctuated' means changed frequently and irregularly.

Global temperatures have been rising for several decades.

Las temperaturas globales han estado subiendo durante varias décadas.

Present perfect continuous shows an ongoing trend.

The recipe requires precise temperatures to be successful.

La receta requiere temperaturas precisas para tener éxito.

'Precise' emphasizes the need for accuracy.

Extreme temperatures can damage the car's battery.

Las temperaturas extremas pueden dañar la batería del coche.

'Extreme' covers both very hot and very cold.

We compared the temperatures of the two different cities.

Comparamos las temperaturas de las dos ciudades diferentes.

Plural used for comparison of data sets.

The temperatures remained steady throughout the afternoon.

Las temperaturas se mantuvieron constantes durante toda la tarde.

'Remained steady' means they did not change.

What are the average daytime temperatures in October?

¿Cuáles son las temperaturas medias diurnas en octubre?

'Daytime' specifies the period of the day.

The temperatures in the lab must be kept constant.

Las temperaturas en el laboratorio deben mantenerse constantes.

'Must be kept' is a passive modal structure.

The soaring temperatures led to an increased demand for electricity.

Las temperaturas altísimas provocaron un aumento en la demanda de electricidad.

'Soaring' is a strong adjective for rapidly rising.

Scientists are monitoring ocean temperatures to study coral bleaching.

Los científicos están monitoreando las temperaturas del océano para estudiar el blanqueamiento de los corales.

Plural refers to measurements at various depths and locations.

The material is designed to withstand temperatures up to 1000 degrees.

El material está diseñado para soportar temperaturas de hasta 1000 grados.

'Withstand' means to resist or endure.

Fluctuating temperatures can affect the growth of certain crops.

Las temperaturas fluctuantes pueden afectar el crecimiento de ciertos cultivos.

'Fluctuating' acts as a participial adjective.

The report highlighted the record-breaking temperatures of the last decade.

El informe destacó las temperaturas récord de la última década.

'Record-breaking' is a compound adjective.

Internal temperatures of the engine must be monitored closely.

Las temperaturas internas del motor deben ser monitoreadas de cerca.

'Internal' specifies where the heat is measured.

The city experienced unusually mild temperatures this winter.

La ciudad experimentó temperaturas inusualmente suaves este invierno.

'Unusually mild' is an adverb-adjective pair.

Temperatures plummeted as the cold front moved across the plains.

Las temperaturas cayeron en picado mientras el frente frío se desplazaba por las llanuras.

'Plummeted' is a vivid verb for falling fast.

The ecological impact of rising temperatures is multifaceted and profound.

El impacto ecológico del aumento de las temperaturas es polifacético y profundo.

Plural refers to the global trend across ecosystems.

Diurnal temperatures in the Sahara can vary by as much as 50 degrees.

Las temperaturas diurnas en el Sahara pueden variar hasta 50 grados.

'Diurnal' refers to the 24-hour cycle of day and night.

The experiment was conducted at cryogenic temperatures to observe quantum effects.

El experimento se llevó a cabo a temperaturas criogénicas para observar efectos cuánticos.

'Cryogenic' refers to extremely low temperatures.

Historical temperatures are reconstructed using tree rings and ice cores.

Las temperaturas históricas se reconstruyen utilizando anillos de árboles y núcleos de hielo.

'Reconstructed' refers to scientific estimation of the past.

The steel's integrity was compromised by the extreme temperatures of the fire.

La integridad del acero se vio comprometida por las temperaturas extremas del incendio.

'Compromised' means weakened or damaged.

Surface temperatures on Venus are high enough to melt lead.

Las temperaturas superficiales en Venus son lo suficientemente altas como para derretir el plomo.

'Surface temperatures' is a common astronomical term.

The study analyzed the correlation between temperatures and urban heat islands.

El estudio analizó la correlación entre las temperaturas y las islas de calor urbanas.

'Correlation' refers to the relationship between two variables.

Despite the freezing temperatures, the festival drew a massive crowd.

A pesar de las temperaturas gélidas, el festival atrajo a una multitud masiva.

'Despite' is a preposition showing contrast.

The nuances of atmospheric temperatures require sophisticated modeling to predict.

Los matices de las temperaturas atmosféricas requieren modelos sofisticados para predecir.

'Nuances' refers to subtle differences or complexities.

Incandescent temperatures within the star trigger nuclear fusion.

Las temperaturas incandescentes dentro de la estrella desencadenan la fusión nuclear.

'Incandescent' means emitting light as a result of being heated.

The poem evokes the sweltering temperatures of a long-forgotten summer.

El poema evoca las temperaturas sofocantes de un verano olvidado hace mucho tiempo.

'Evokes' means to bring a feeling or memory to mind.

The thermodynamic properties of the gas change at varying temperatures.

Las propiedades termodinámicas del gas cambian a diferentes temperaturas.

'Thermodynamic' refers to the branch of physics dealing with heat.

Proxy temperatures derived from fossils offer a glimpse into the Eocene epoch.

Las temperaturas indirectas derivadas de fósiles ofrecen una visión de la época del Eoceno.

'Proxy' refers to a substitute used for measurement.

The delicate balance of ambient temperatures is vital for the preservation of the artifacts.

El delicado equilibrio de las temperaturas ambiente es vital para la preservación de los artefactos.

'Ambient' refers to the surrounding environment.

Sub-zero temperatures rendered the equipment virtually useless.

Las temperaturas bajo cero dejaron el equipo prácticamente inútil.

'Rendered' means caused to become.

The shifting temperatures of the geopolitical landscape mirror the climate crisis.

Las temperaturas cambiantes del panorama geopolítico reflejan la crisis climática.

Metaphorical use of 'temperatures' to describe tension.

Common Collocations

high temperatures

low temperatures

average temperatures

extreme temperatures

rising temperatures

falling temperatures

operating temperatures

record temperatures

ambient temperatures

surface temperatures

Common Phrases

Temperatures are set to rise

— Used to predict that it will become hotter soon.

Temperatures are set to rise as the weekend approaches.

A range of temperatures

— Refers to the variety between the highest and lowest points.

The desert has a wide range of temperatures throughout the day.

In freezing temperatures

— Used to describe being in an environment where it is 0°C or below.

They worked for hours in freezing temperatures to fix the pipe.

Maintain consistent temperatures

— To keep the heat level the same without letting it change.

The wine cellar must maintain consistent temperatures.

Subject to extreme temperatures

— When something is exposed to very hot or very cold conditions.

The bridge is subject to extreme temperatures during the year.

Temperatures reached a peak

— When the heat level hit its highest point.

Temperatures reached a peak of 42 degrees at 3 PM.

Fluctuations in temperatures

— The irregular changes in how hot or cold it is.

Fluctuations in temperatures can make people feel sick.

Below-average temperatures

— When it is colder than what is normally expected.

We have had below-average temperatures all through April.

Above-normal temperatures

— When it is hotter than the usual measurement.

The forecast predicts above-normal temperatures for the summer.

Temperatures plummeted overnight

— When the heat level dropped very quickly during the night.

Temperatures plummeted overnight, leaving ice on the cars.

Often Confused With

temperatures vs Weather

Weather is the whole system (rain, wind, sun); temperatures are just the heat measurements.

temperatures vs Heat

Heat is the energy or feeling; temperatures are the specific numbers on a scale.

temperatures vs Climate

Climate is the long-term pattern; temperatures are the daily or specific data points.

Idioms & Expressions

"Temperatures rising"

— Used metaphorically to describe a situation becoming tense or angry.

You could feel the temperatures rising in the meeting as they argued.

Informal/Metaphorical

"Keep a cool head"

— To stay calm even when 'temperatures' (emotions) are high.

He kept a cool head despite the soaring temperatures of the debate.

Idiomatic

"The heat is on"

— Pressure is increasing, often associated with high temperatures.

With the deadline approaching, the heat is on the team.

Informal

"Break a sweat"

— To put in effort, often due to high temperatures or hard work.

The temperatures were so high I broke a sweat just standing there.

Informal

"Cold comfort"

— Something that is supposed to be helpful but actually isn't, like a low temperature.

The slight dip in temperatures was cold comfort during the heatwave.

Idiomatic

"Boiling point"

— The moment when a situation becomes uncontrollable or angry.

The temperatures of the crowd reached boiling point during the protest.

Metaphorical

"Frozen in time"

— Remaining unchanged, as if by very low temperatures.

The village looked frozen in time under the low winter temperatures.

Literary

"Under the weather"

— Feeling sick, often related to changes in temperatures.

The fluctuating temperatures left me feeling a bit under the weather.

Informal

"A cold day in hell"

— Something that will never happen, regardless of temperatures.

It'll be a cold day in hell before I enjoy these freezing temperatures.

Slang/Informal

"In the heat of the moment"

— Doing something without thinking because of strong emotions.

In the heat of the moment, I forgot how high the temperatures were.

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

temperatures vs Temperate

Similar spelling and root.

Temperate is an adjective meaning 'mild' or 'moderate,' while temperatures is a plural noun.

We live in a temperate zone where temperatures are never too extreme.

temperatures vs Temperament

Both come from the same Latin root.

Temperament refers to a person's personality, not heat levels.

His calm temperament helps him work in high temperatures.

temperatures vs Temporal

Starts with the same letters.

Temporal refers to time, not heat.

The temporal changes in temperatures were recorded over a week.

temperatures vs Temporary

Sounds similar at the beginning.

Temporary means 'not permanent,' while temperatures are heat measurements.

The drop in temperatures was only temporary.

temperatures vs Degrees

Used to measure temperatures.

Degrees are the units; temperatures are the concept being measured.

The temperatures rose by ten degrees.

Sentence Patterns

The temperatures are [adjective].

The temperatures are hot.

The temperatures in [place] are [adjective].

The temperatures in Spain are warm.

Temperatures [verb] between [number] and [number].

Temperatures fluctuate between 10 and 15 degrees.

There is a [noun] in temperatures.

There is a rise in temperatures.

[Adjective] temperatures led to [result].

Extreme temperatures led to the road melting.

Monitoring the [adjective] temperatures of [object].

Monitoring the internal temperatures of the machine.

Despite the [adjective] temperatures, [clause].

Despite the freezing temperatures, the team finished the work.

The [adjective] nature of [adjective] temperatures [verb].

The volatile nature of atmospheric temperatures complicates the forecast.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely common in daily speech and technical writing.

Common Mistakes

The temperatures is very high. → The temperatures are very high.
Temperatures is a plural noun and requires a plural verb.
I don't like this temperatures. → I don't like these temperatures.
Use the plural demonstrative 'these' with the plural noun 'temperatures.'
The temperatures are rainy today. → The weather is rainy today.
Temperatures only refer to heat and cold, not rain or wind.
We had a very strong temperatures yesterday. → We had very high temperatures yesterday.
Use 'high' or 'low' to describe the intensity of temperatures, not 'strong.'
The temperature are 30 degrees. → The temperatures are 30 degrees (if referring to multiple places) or The temperature is 30 degrees.
Match the singular noun with a singular verb or the plural noun with a plural verb.

Tips

Subject-Verb Agreement

Always pair 'temperatures' with plural verbs like 'are' or 'were.' This is the most common mistake for learners.

Use Precise Verbs

Instead of just saying 'go up' or 'go down,' try using 'soar,' 'plummet,' 'fluctuate,' or 'stabilize' to sound more advanced.

Pronunciation Practice

Focus on the 'ch' sound in the middle. It sounds like the 'ch' in 'cheese.' Don't let the 't' sound too hard.

Contextual Clarity

When using 'temperatures' in an essay, specify if you mean 'global,' 'seasonal,' or 'internal' to give your reader more detail.

Weather Reports

Listen to English weather forecasts on YouTube. They use the word 'temperatures' constantly, which is great for ear training.

Global Context

Remember that Americans use Fahrenheit. If you see 'temperatures' in the 70s or 80s, they are likely using the US scale!

Common Pairs

Learn 'temperatures' with its best friends: 'high,' 'low,' 'average,' and 'extreme.' These pairs appear together 90% of the time.

Data Analysis

In science, 'temperatures' is almost always plural because researchers look at many different data points over time.

Technical Manuals

Look for 'operating temperatures' in manuals for your phone or laptop. It tells you the safe range for using the device.

Small Talk

Use 'temperatures' to start a conversation. 'The temperatures are really dropping today, aren't they?' is a perfect icebreaker.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'TEM-per-a-tures' as 'TEM-porary' changes in the air. Since there are many changes, we add an 's' to make it plural.

Visual Association

Imagine a line graph with many points going up and down. Each point is a temperature, and the whole graph shows 'temperatures.'

Word Web

Weather Degrees Celsius Fahrenheit Climate Heat Cold Thermometer

Challenge

Try to use the word 'temperatures' three times in a conversation about your favorite season today.

Word Origin

The word comes from the Latin 'temperatura,' which means 'a mixing' or 'a tempering.' It is derived from 'temperare,' meaning 'to mix' or 'to moderate.'

Original meaning: Originally, it referred to the proper mixture of the four humors in the human body, which was believed to determine a person's health and character.

It is part of the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch, leading into Romance languages and then into English via Old French.

Cultural Context

When discussing global temperatures, be aware that climate change can be a sensitive or political topic for some people.

Weather talk is a social lubricant in the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. Complaining about temperatures is a national pastime in Britain.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury (referring to the temperature at which paper burns). The song 'Hot Stuff' often references rising temperatures. Weather channels like 'The Weather Network' use the term 'temperatures' every few minutes.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weather Forecasting

Daytime temperatures
Overnight temperatures
Weekly temperatures
Temperatures will reach

Cooking and Baking

Oven temperatures
Cooking temperatures
Internal temperatures
Adjust the temperatures

Scientific Research

Recorded temperatures
Fluctuating temperatures
Ambient temperatures
Temperatures were measured

Health and Medicine

Body temperatures
Running temperatures
High temperatures (fever)
Check the temperatures

Climate Change Discussion

Global temperatures
Rising temperatures
Historical temperatures
Impact of temperatures

Conversation Starters

"Have you noticed how much the temperatures have changed this week?"

"What are the average temperatures like in your hometown during the winter?"

"Do you prefer living in a place with constant temperatures or changing seasons?"

"How do you deal with extreme temperatures when you are traveling?"

"Do you think the rising global temperatures are the biggest problem we face?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a day when the temperatures were so extreme that you had to change your plans.

Write about how the temperatures in your favorite city change throughout the year.

How do you think rising temperatures will affect the way we live in fifty years?

Compare the temperatures of two places you have visited. Which did you like more?

Explain why it is important for a chef or a scientist to monitor temperatures carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'temperature' is the singular form used for one measurement. Use 'temperatures' when talking about a range, a series of data points, or comparing different times and places.

No, that is incorrect. Because 'temperatures' is plural, you must use the plural verb 'are.' The correct sentence is 'The temperatures are hot.'

Heat is the physical energy or the sensation of being hot. Temperatures are the specific numerical measurements of that heat. You feel the heat, but you read the temperatures.

Use 'average temperatures' when you want to describe the typical heat level of a place over a long period, like a month or a year, rather than just one specific day.

In British English, it's often three syllables: 'TEM-pruh-chuhz.' In American English, it's often four: 'TEM-per-uh-churz.' The stress is always on the first syllable.

Yes, in a medical context. If a doctor says 'We are tracking his temperatures,' they mean they are checking the patient's body heat multiple times to watch a fever.

Yes, metaphorically. People might talk about 'market temperatures' to describe how active or 'hot' a particular industry is at the moment.

Extreme temperatures are heat levels that are very far from the normal range, such as a 45°C heatwave or a -30°C blizzard.

Always use 'high' or 'low' with temperatures. 'Strong' is used for wind or heat, but not for the word 'temperatures' itself.

It means that the heat levels are changing frequently and unpredictably, going up and down over a short period of time.