How Do British People Say “It’s Hot”? | British Weather Phrases You’ll Hear Every Summer

British people never waste an opportunity to talk about the weather. When temperatures rise, the conversation gets even more dramatic. If you're learning British English or you’re planning to spend time in the UK, knowing how people describe hot weather will help you sound more natural and instantly connect with locals.

This guide breaks down the most common expressions used during warm spells, along with an episode of the BritSpeakPod that walks you through them in context.

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:

Episode 006 – How Do British People Say “It’s Hot?”

Why British People Love Talking About Hot Weather

Warm days are unpredictable in the UK. One moment it feels like spring, then suddenly it’s summer, then autumn arrives at lunchtime, and by the evening it’s pouring. This constant change fuels an endless cycle of commentary and complaints. Hot weather especially triggers dramatic descriptions, exaggerations and loads of slang.

Understanding this cultural habit helps you join in naturally... because weather chat truly is a national pastime.

Common British Expressions for Hot Weather:

“I like it hot, but not this hot.”

People often say this once temperatures get slightly uncomfortable. It’s a mild complaint disguised as a preference.

“It’s like a bloody sauna in here!”

Used when a room feels unbearably stuffy. The comparison exaggerates the heat for comic effect.

“It’s muggy today.”

A common slang term for humid weather. When the air feels thick and sticky, people describe it as “muggy”.

“It’s a scorcher.”

Used on very hot days, often heard in summer news reports or casual conversations.

“It’s a belter / It’s a stunner.”

These describe good weather. Both highlight a rare perfect summer’s day that everyone wants to enjoy.

“It’s boiling.”

A simple way to say the temperature feels extreme, even when it's nowhere near boiling in reality.

“It’s sweltering.”

A stronger version of “boiling”. Often used when the heat feels suffocating.

“It’s red hot / It’s redders.”

Common in northern regions. “Redders” is dialectal and might confuse people outside the area, but “red hot” is widely recognised.

How British People Describe Themselves in Hot Weather

“I’m melting.”

A vivid way of saying the heat is unbearable.

“I’m roasting.”

Suggests the person feels like they’re being cooked.

“I’m sweating like a pig.”

A humorous way to say someone is sweating heavily, even though pigs don’t actually sweat much.

These exaggerated expressions highlight the British love of humour and hyperbole, especially when complaining.

Why These Phrases Matter for Learners

Weather talk is an easy, friendly way to break the ice with British people. Using expressions like these helps you:

• Sound more natural
• Understand authentic conversations
• Build small talk skills
• Connect with locals through shared humour

Knowing the language of British summertime makes your interactions smoother and more culturally aware.