A2noun1K

Gas

UK /["/ɡæs/"]/US /["/ɡæs/"]/

Definition

any substance like air that is neither a solid nor a liquid, for example hydrogen or oxygen

In simple words: A substance that is neither solid nor liquid, such as air.

Examples

  • The gas in the balloon made it float high in the sky.
  • You should turn off the gas when you're done cooking.
  • Many cars run on gas, which is a type of fuel.
  • The gas was released during the chemical reaction.
  • She felt sick because of the gas from the factory.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation to refer to fuel, but can also refer to air or vapor. In a scientific context, it can denote a state of matter. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a gas when you blow up a balloon—it fills the space.

Collocations

  • deadly
  • noxious
  • poisonous
  • emit
  • give off
  • produce
  • build up
  • leak
  • emissions
  • chamber
  • butane
  • coal
  • natural
  • cook with
  • light
  • turn on
  • appliance
  • boiler
  • central heating
  • gas mark 2, 3, etc.
  • pedal
  • station

Synonyms

  • vapor
  • air
  • fume
  • steam
  • smoke

Antonyms

  • solid
  • liquid

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gasoline' when referring specifically to fuel.
  • Using 'gases' as a singular form.
  • Mixing up with 'gaslight' which means to manipulate someone's perception.