Is at boiling point formal or informal?

It is neutral. You can use it in speaking and writing, including news and academic-style reports.

Is at boiling point the same as furious?

Not exactly. Furious describes the feeling itself, while at boiling point suggests the feeling is building and may explode.

Can I use at boiling point for stress or conflict?

Yes. It often describes stress, arguments, or group tension that has become very intense.

← Dictionary

at-boiling-point

/æt ˈbɔɪ.lɪŋ pɔɪnt/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Very angry, excited, or upset. It means a person feels so full of emotion that they may react strongly.

She was at boiling point after the long delay.
His frustration reached boiling point in the meeting.
Tensions in the room were at boiling point.

Adinary Nuance

At boiling point is stronger than angry or upset. It suggests emotions have built up for some time and are about to burst out. Writers often use it for tension, conflict, or frustration, not just a quick mood change.

In other languages

Vietnamese: Sôi máu
Spanish: Al límite
Chinese: 怒火中烧
Japanese: 怒り心頭
Korean: 끓어오르는 상태

Etymology

This phrase comes from the literal boiling point of water, when heat makes it start to boil. English began using it figuratively for strong feelings in the 1800s.

Common phrases

reach boiling pointat boiling point with angertensions hit boiling point

Synonyms

furious enraged seething overheated

Related words

temper rage tension pressure

Frequently asked questions

Is at boiling point formal or informal?: It is neutral. You can use it in speaking and writing, including news and academic-style reports.
Is at boiling point the same as furious?: Not exactly. Furious describes the feeling itself, while at boiling point suggests the feeling is building and may explode.
Can I use at boiling point for stress or conflict?: Yes. It often describes stress, arguments, or group tension that has become very intense.