冷たい — meaning in English: cold

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Guess the translation for cold

コール

kōru

パス

pasu

ごみ

gomi

冷たい

tsumetai

フラグ

furagu

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 冷たい when describing the temperature of food or drinks, like saying a beverage is cold on a hot day. It can also describe the chill in the air during winter or the sensation of a cold surface. Additionally, this word can convey emotional distances, such as someone being cold or unapproachable in a social setting.

Synonyms & nuances

While 冷たい specifically refers to coldness with a tactile or emotional implication, another word, 寒い (samui), primarily describes cold weather. You would use 冷たい when discussing something like an iced drink, whereas 寒い would apply to chilly outdoor conditions.

Culture

The word 冷たい is derived from the Japanese verb 冷やす (hiyasu), which means 'to cool' or 'to chill.' In Japan, the concept of temperature, particularly coldness, is deeply intertwined with seasonal changes, making this word prevalent in everyday conversation, especially during summer festivals where cold drinks are a highlight.

FAQ

Q.What does 冷たい mean in English?

冷たい translates to 'cold' in English, used to describe temperature and emotional states. It's a versatile word applicable in various contexts.

Q.Can 冷たい describe people?

Yes, 冷たい can describe a person's demeanor, implying they are unfriendly or emotionally distant. Context is key to understanding its usage.

Q.How do you use 冷たい in a sentence?

You can use 冷たい in a sentence like 'この水は冷たいです' (kono mizu wa tsumetai desu), which means 'This water is cold.' It’s a straightforward way to talk about temperature.

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