B1noun1K

Fuel

UK /["/ˈfjuːəl/"]/US /["/ˈfjuːəl/"]/

Definition

any material that produces heat or power, usually when it is burnt

In simple words: A substance that provides energy or power, usually in the form of liquid or gas.

Examples

  • The fuel in my car is running low, so I need to fill up soon.
  • Wood and coal are considered traditional fuels for heating.
  • The government announced a plan to reduce dependence on fossil fuel.
  • Her enthusiasm for the project fueled the team's motivation.
  • The campfire provided both warmth and fuel for our cooking.
  • Many engines require a specific type of fuel for optimal performance.
  • In the debate, the politician's remarks fueled controversy.
  • She found that her passion for painting fueled her creativity.
  • Electric vehicles use batteries as their fuel source.

Usage notes

Used mostly in contexts related to energy, cars, or machinery. Avoid using it in non-technical discussions about other forms of motivation or inspiration.

Grammar pattern

fuel + object

Memory hint

Think of a car 'fueled' up for a long trip — it's ready to go!

Collocations

  • clean
  • smokeless
  • unleaded
  • burn
  • consume
  • run on
  • bill
  • costs
  • prices

Synonyms

  • gasoline
  • petrol
  • energy source
  • propellant
  • power

Antonyms

  • starve
  • deplete
  • exhaust

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'full' when talking about tanks.
  • Using 'fuels' as a verb in non-mechanical contexts.
  • Mixing up with 'food' when discussing energy for living beings.