hot on: Idiom Meaning and Origin

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.