Definition of Coal
Quick Meaning of Coal
A dark solid fuel that comes from under the ground and is used for heating and power.
Detailed Definition of Coal
Black or dark brown rock formed from fossilized plant material, burned as fuel.
How to Pronounce Coal
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with goal and soul. The /oʊ/ diphthong is pronounced like o in 'go'.
Origin and Etymology of Coal
Old English col; from Proto-Germanic *kula-. Related to charcoal.
How to Use Coal in a Sentence
Each example shows “coal” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Coal mining was once the largest industry in our region.”
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“Many power plants still burn coal to generate electricity.”
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“Children used to draw with lumps of coal.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Coal
Common Synonyms for Coal
Smart Synonyms for Coal — When to Use Each
- charcoal
- for burned organic material used in grilling
- fuel
- as a general term for any burning material
Common Collocations with Coal
These phrases pair with “coal” in everyday English:
- coal mining
- burn coal
- coal dust
- coal seam
- coal industry
Common Mistakes When Using Coal
Even fluent speakers slip up with “coal”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The coal are burned for energy.
- ✓ Correct: Coal is burned for energy.
- Why: Coal as a mass noun takes singular verb; use plural coals for countable pieces.
- ✗ Wrong: We need more coals.
- ✓ Correct: We need more coal.
- Why: When referring to the fuel substance itself, coal is usually uncountable.
Other Forms of Coal
- Noun: coal
Frequently Asked Questions About Coal
What is the meaning of "Coal"?
A dark solid fuel that comes from under the ground and is used for heating and power.
How do you pronounce "Coal"?
The IPA is /koʊl/. Rhymes with goal and soul. The /oʊ/ diphthong is pronounced like o in 'go'.
What part of speech is "Coal"?
"Coal" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Coal"?
Common synonyms include fuel, charcoal, ember.
How do you use "Coal" in a sentence?
For example: "Coal mining was once the largest industry in our region."