Cold today
Weather observation
Use this phrase to break the silence and connect with others through a shared weather experience.
En 15 secondes
- A simple observation used to start small talk with anyone.
- Short for 'It is cold today' to save time and energy.
- Best used when entering a building or waiting outside.
Signification
You are simply noticing that the temperature is low right now. It is a very common way to start a conversation with anyone you meet.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Waiting for a bus with a stranger
Cold today, isn't it?
It is cold today, right?
Entering a warm office from the street
Phew, cold today!
Wow, it is cold today!
Texting a friend to meet for coffee
Cold today. Let's meet inside.
It's cold today. Let's meet indoors.
Contexte culturel
Talking about the weather is a universal social lubricant in English-speaking cultures, especially in the UK and Canada. It serves as a way to acknowledge someone's presence without being intrusive. It became a staple of 'small talk' because the weather in these regions is famously unpredictable.
The 'Agreement' Rule
When someone says `Cold today`, you should almost always agree, even if you don't feel that cold. It's about social bonding, not a scientific measurement!
Don't be a Robot
Avoid saying `The temperature is low today`. It sounds too much like a weather report. Stick to `Cold today` for a natural vibe.
En 15 secondes
- A simple observation used to start small talk with anyone.
- Short for 'It is cold today' to save time and energy.
- Best used when entering a building or waiting outside.
What It Means
Cold today is a short way of saying the weather is chilly. It is a simple observation about the temperature. You are not just sharing news. You are inviting the other person to agree with you. It is the ultimate English 'icebreaker' phrase.
How To Use It
You can say it as a statement or a question. If you say it with a rising voice, it becomes Cold today?. Most people use it to fill a quiet moment. It works best when you are standing near someone. You do not need a long story. Just say these two words and wait for a nod.
When To Use It
Use it when you first see someone. It works perfectly at a bus stop. Use it when you enter an office from outside. It is great for texting a friend to suggest staying indoors. Even if you are shivering, keep it brief. It shows you are aware of your surroundings.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it if you are already inside a warm house. Avoid it during a serious business pitch. If it is 30 degrees Celsius, people will think you are joking. Do not use it if the other person is wearing a heavy coat. They already know it is cold! It can feel repetitive if said too many times.
Cultural Background
British and American people love talking about the weather. It is a 'safe' topic for everyone. It avoids politics, money, or personal problems. In the UK, it is almost a social reflex. It helps people feel connected without being too personal. It is the foundation of small talk culture.
Common Variations
You might hear Chilly, isn't it? for a softer feel. Freezing today! is for when you can see your breath. Some people just say Bit parky in parts of England. If you want to be more formal, use It is quite cold today. But Cold today remains the king of efficiency.
Notes d'usage
This phrase is highly versatile and sits in the 'neutral' to 'informal' range. The main 'gotcha' is to ensure you aren't describing a medical illness (a cold) by accidentally adding the word 'a'.
The 'Agreement' Rule
When someone says `Cold today`, you should almost always agree, even if you don't feel that cold. It's about social bonding, not a scientific measurement!
Don't be a Robot
Avoid saying `The temperature is low today`. It sounds too much like a weather report. Stick to `Cold today` for a natural vibe.
The British Secret
In the UK, talking about the cold is a way to complain together. Shared complaining is a very common way to make friends quickly!
Exemples
6Cold today, isn't it?
It is cold today, right?
Adding 'isn't it' turns it into a friendly question.
Phew, cold today!
Wow, it is cold today!
The 'Phew' shows relief to be in the warmth.
Cold today. Let's meet inside.
It's cold today. Let's meet indoors.
Used as a reason to change plans.
Bit cold today in this office, don't you think?
It is a little cold in here, right?
Used humorously to point out a problem.
Really cold today. My ears are freezing!
It is very cold today. My ears are cold!
Adding 'really' emphasizes the intensity.
Morning! Cold today!
Good morning! It is cold today!
Used as a replacement for a longer conversation.
Teste-toi
Choose the best word to complete the small talk.
___ today, isn't it?
`Cold` is the standard adjective used for this common weather expression.
Select the most natural response to 'Cold today!'
Person A: Cold today! Person B: ___
Small talk requires agreement to keep the social flow going.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality of Weather Talk
Used with friends or family.
Freezing, eh?
Perfect for strangers or colleagues.
Cold today.
Used in polite or professional settings.
It is rather chilly today, isn't it?
Where to say 'Cold today'
Elevator
Nodding to a neighbor.
Coffee Shop
Talking to the barista.
Bus Stop
Waiting with a stranger.
Office Kitchen
Making tea with a coworker.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsTechnically no, it is a shortened version of It is cold today. However, in spoken English, we drop the It is to make it faster and more casual.
Yes, it is a very safe phrase for the workplace. It shows you are friendly without being unprofessional.
A simple It sure is! or Tell me about it! works perfectly. You can also just nod and say Brrr!
Only if it is actually cold! If you say it every day regardless of the weather, people might think you are stuck on repeat.
Chilly is a bit milder, like you might need a light sweater. Cold usually means you definitely need a coat.
It is better for the 'P.S.' or the opening line of a casual email. For example: Hope you're staying warm, it's cold today!
It is a 'neutral ground' topic. It doesn't offend anyone and everyone experiences it, making it the perfect conversation starter.
No, it is not slang. It is just a common, informal way of speaking used by people of all ages.
No, do not use a. If you say I have a cold today, it means you are sick with a cough or sneeze!
You can say Freezing today! or It's like an icebox out there! for extra emphasis.
Expressions liées
Chilly out there
It is moderately cold outside.
Freezing today
It is extremely cold.
Bit of a nip in the air
A slightly poetic way to say it is cold.
Lovely weather, isn't it?
Sarcastic way to say the weather is actually terrible.
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