What is torrid? Pronunciation and usage in English

torrid means . Learn how to pronounce and use torrid through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of torrid

torridadjective

/ˈtɒrɪd//ˈtɔːrɪd/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "torrid" in English. Here's a breakdown with audio examples and explanations:

1. The Basic Pronunciation:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • ** /ˈtɒrɪd/ (TOR-id)**

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • TOR: This sounds like the word "tor" (as in a stone pillar) – a short "o" sound.
  • ID: This sounds like the word "id" – a short "i" sound, like in "it."

2. Phonetic Transcription (for more precise clarity):

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /ˈtɔːrɪd/ (This is what linguists use)

3. Tips & Nuances:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("TOR"). This is a very important point!
  • "r" sound: In American English, the "r" in "torrid" is pronounced. It's a slightly rolled "r," which is common in American accents. In British English, the “r” can sometimes be almost silent.
  • Don't say "tor-eed": It's a common mistake. The "d" at the end is not pronounced. It's simply “tor-id.”

4. Audio Examples:

To summarize: Think "TOR-id." Practice saying it slowly, focusing on the short "o" sound and the short "i" sound.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word torrid in English

Let's break down how to use the word "torrid." It's a rich word with multiple layers of meaning, and understanding those nuances is key to using it effectively.

1. Core Meaning: Extremely Hot (Physically)

  • Definition: At its most basic, "torrid" describes something incredibly hot, like a scorching summer day or a blazing fire.
  • Example: "The desert was experiencing a torrid heatwave."
  • Synonyms: scorching, sweltering, blistering, stifling

2. Figurative Meaning: Passionate, Intense, or Frenetic

This is where "torrid" gets really interesting. It’s frequently used metaphorically to describe:

  • Intense Passion (Romantic): This is the most common usage today. It means a wildly passionate, often overwhelming, romantic relationship.
    • Example: “Their courtship was a torrid affair filled with late-night calls and breathless declarations.”
  • Wild, Frenetic Activity: It can also describe a situation that is chaotic, energetic, and possibly overwhelming.
    • Example: “The party was a torrid scene – everyone dancing and shouting.”
  • Intense Emotion (General): It can be used to describe any strong, perhaps slightly overwhelming feeling.
    • Example: "After the argument, she was consumed by a torrid mix of anger and sadness."

3. Historical/Literary Meaning: Wild, Savage, or Unruly

  • Origin: “Torrid” comes from the Roman goddess Juno Torina, associated with fertility and passion. Historically, it was often used to describe wild, untamed landscapes or intensely passionate, almost savage behavior.
  • Example (Older Usage - Less Common Now): “The tribe lived a torrid existence in the wilderness.” (This might sound a bit archaic in modern conversation.)

Here's a breakdown of how to use "torrid" effectively, with examples:

A. Describing Physical Heat:

  • "The sun beat down with a torrid intensity."
  • "We spent a torrid afternoon hiking in the mountains."

B. Describing Romantic Passion:

  • "Their love story was a torrid drama, full of jealousy and betrayal." (Implies a very dramatic, intense relationship)
  • “He gave her a torrid kiss under the moonlight.” (Emphasizes the intensity of the kiss)
  • “They had a torrid night, lost in each other’s arms.”

C. Describing Chaotic Activity:

  • “The stock market experienced a torrid trading day.” (Meaning it was very volatile and fast-paced)
  • "The concert was a torrid celebration of the band's success." (Describing the energetic crowd and atmosphere)

Important Notes:

  • Tone: “Torrid” carries a strong, sometimes dramatic, tone. It’s not a light, casual word. Use it when you want to convey significant intensity.
  • Overuse: Don't overuse it! It can feel a bit forced if you apply it to everything.
  • Context: Pay close attention to the context to ensure the meaning is clear. When used figuratively, it strongly suggests intensity.

Resources for More Examples:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you thinking of using the word "torrid"? (e.g., writing a story, describing a scene, having a conversation?)

Synonyms for the word torrid

Practice with vocabulary torrid

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During the summer months, the region experiences a _________ climate, making outdoor activities challenging due to the intense heat.
  2. The economist predicted a period of _________ growth for the tech sector, driven by strong consumer demand and innovation.
  3. The diplomat's _________ speech passionately advocated for human rights, earning a standing ovation from the assembly.
  4. Their _________ romance, though brief, became the subject of much speculation and gossip within the artistic community.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words could describe a period of extremely hot and dry weather? a) brisk b) arid c) frigid d) scorching e) torrid

  2. Select the best word(s) to complete the sentence: "The CEO's _________ pursuit of market dominance led to several controversial mergers." a) lackadaisical b) fervent c) tepid d) languid e) relentless

  3. Which adjectives can be used to describe an intense and passionate love affair? a) platonic b) ardent c) tempestuous d) lukewarm e) torrid

  4. A desert environment, characterized by extreme heat and dryness, is often referred to as a _________ zone. a) temperate b) glacial c) torrid d) tropical e) polar

  5. Which word best describes a task that is exceptionally difficult and requires a great deal of effort to complete? a) trivial b) arduous c) facile d) effortless e) perfunctory

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The summer in this region is incredibly hot and dry, making it difficult for agriculture. (Rewrite using "torrid".)

  2. Despite their public appearances, their relationship behind closed doors was incredibly intense and passionate. (Rewrite using "torrid".)

  3. The project's initial phase was extremely challenging, demanding long hours and significant dedication from the team. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, but not "torrid".)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. torrid
  2. robust (or exponential)
  3. fervent (or impassioned)
  4. torrid

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) arid, d) scorching, e) torrid
  2. b) fervent, e) relentless
  3. b) ardent, c) tempestuous, e) torrid
  4. c) torrid
  5. b) arduous

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The region experiences torrid summers, which severely challenge agricultural productivity.
  2. Behind their public appearances lay a torrid relationship, marked by intense passion.
  3. Demanding long hours and significant dedication, the team faced an arduous initial phase of the project.

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