気温

きおん

temperature (weather - not used for things)

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Understanding 気温

気温 refers specifically to the temperature of the air outside, usually related to weather conditions. It is not used for measuring the temperature of objects or people. This word is common in weather forecasts and daily conversations about the weather.

Common Contexts

You will often hear 気温 when discussing daily weather reports, seasonal changes, or dressing appropriately for the weather. It is a neutral, standard term suitable for both casual and formal situations.

Typical Collocations

  • 気温が高い/低い: to describe high or low temperatures
  • 今日の気温: today's temperature
  • 気温の変化: changes in temperature

Usage Tips

When talking about temperature in general, use 気温 for weather-related temperature only. For body temperature, use 体温 (たいおん), and for object temperature, use 温度 (おんど). Avoid mixing these terms to prevent confusion.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes use 気温 to refer to body temperature, but this is incorrect. Remember, 気温 is only for the air temperature outside or in the environment.

Example Sentences

きょうのきおんはさんじゅうどをこえるそうです。

I heard today's temperature will exceed 30 degrees.

あさのきおんがひくいので、あたたかいふくをきてください。

The morning temperature is low, so please wear warm clothes.

きおんのへんかにちゅういして、たいちょうをくずさないようにしましょう。

Be careful of temperature changes and try not to get sick.