hot on: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hot on’ mean?
The idiom "hot on" means to be closely pursuing or following someone or something, usually in terms of investigation or discovery.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "on fire" means to be performing exceptionally well or having great success in a particular activity. It is often used to describe someone who is highly skilled, talented, or in a state of intense enthusiasm or energy.
The idiom "lay hands on" means to find or acquire something, often with a sense of urgency or determination.
The idiom "latch onto" means to quickly understand or grasp something, often an idea or concept. It implies a swift and strong attachment or connection to the subject matter.
The idiom "in the hot seat" means to be in a difficult or uncomfortable position, often under scrutiny or facing intense questioning.
The idiom "hot off the presses" means freshly printed or just released, referring to the immediacy and freshness of news or information.
The idiom *hot hand* refers to a streak or period of success or good fortune. It is often used in sports to describe a player who is performing exceptionally well for a certain period of time.
The idiom *hot and heavy* means being intense and passionate, usually in a romantic or sexual manner.
The idiom "hot and cold" means to be inconsistent or indecisive in one's actions or feelings.
The idiom "hot and bothered" means to be agitated, flustered, or excited, often due to stressful or challenging circumstances.
The idiom "hot and bothered" is a commonly used expression in American English, particularly in informal contexts. It is primarily used to describe a state of agitation or frustration. This phrase implies that someone or something is overwhelmed by emotional or physical discomfort, often due to stress or anxiety.
The idiom "have the hots for" means to have strong romantic or sexual feelings towards someone. It suggests a strong attraction or desire for that person, often accompanied by a sense of infatuation.
The idiom "have the hots for" implies a strong, often romantic, attraction or desire towards someone. It is commonly used in informal speech and writing, particularly in American English.
Idiom Decoded: "Hot On" Explained
The idiom "have the hots for" is closely related to the phrase "hot on." When someone has the hots for someone else, it means they are strongly attracted to them or have a romantic interest in them. This phrase conveys a sense of desire and passion, similar to the intensity and immediacy implied by "hot on." For example, one might say, "John has the hots for Lisa and is always chasing after her." This indicates that John is actively pursuing Lisa and has a strong romantic interest in her.
Another related idiom is "chase after," which means to pursue or seek something or someone. This phrase aligns with the idea of being "hot on" someone or something, as it implies a determined and active pursuit. For instance, one might say, "He is always chasing after new opportunities," indicating that the person is constantly seeking and pursuing new opportunities in their career or personal life.
Similar to "chase after," the expression "give chase" also relates to the idea of actively pursuing someone or something. When someone gives chase, they are actively and energetically chasing or pursuing a target. This phrase conveys a sense of speed and determination, much like being "hot on" someone or something. For example, one might say, "The police gave chase to the suspect," indicating that the police pursued the suspect with energy and commitment.
The idiom "be on to" is also connected to the concept of being "hot on" someone or something. When someone is on to something, they have discovered or become aware of something, often with a sense of excitement or anticipation. This phrase aligns with the idea of being closely following or pursuing something, as it implies a keen awareness and understanding. For instance, one might say, "She is on to the secret plan and is determined to expose it," suggesting that she is actively investigating and pursuing knowledge about the secret plan.
Lastly, the idiom "boiling hot" is related to the literal meaning of "hot" but can also be connected to the intensity and immediacy implied by "hot on." "Boiling hot" conveys the idea of extreme heat and intensity, similar to the sense of urgency and determination implied by being "hot on" someone or something. For example, one might say, "The competition between the two companies is boiling hot," suggesting that the competition is intense and highly competitive.
The idiom "hot on" is an informal phrase used to describe someone who is closely following or pursuing something or someone. It conveys a sense of intensity and immediacy in the pursuit, and it can be used in various contexts. Similarly, the related idioms "have the hots for," "chase after," "give chase," "be on to," and "boiling hot" all align with the idea of actively pursuing or closely following something or someone. These idioms add depth and variation to the language, allowing for a more colorful and nuanced expression. As an editor, it is important to be mindful of how these idioms are used and to ensure that they enhance the clarity, coherence, and effectiveness of the article.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *hot on* can be used in a sentence:
- I'm hot on the trail of the missing puppy.
- The detective is hot on the suspect's heels.
- She's hot on the latest fashion trends.
The idiom "hot on" is often used to describe someone who is actively pursuing or closely following something, whether it be a trail, a suspect, or a trend. It signifies being determined, focused, and in close pursuit of something or someone.
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