A2noun2K

Petrol

UK /["/ˈpetrəl/"]/US /["/ˈpetrəl/"]/

Definition

a liquid obtained from petroleum, used as fuel in car engines, etc.

In simple words: A type of fuel used in cars.

Examples

  • I need to stop and fill my car with petrol.
  • The petrol prices have increased this month.
  • In some countries, petrol is more expensive than in others.
  • He spilled petrol on the ground while refueling.
  • Do you know where the nearest petrol station is?

Usage notes

Commonly used in British English. In the US, it's referred to as 'gasoline'. It's appropriate to use in everyday conversations about cars and fuel.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a pet that needs fuel to run — think of 'pet' and 'rol' in 'petrol'.

Collocations

  • lead-free
  • ultra-low sulphur
  • unleaded
  • litre
  • tankful
  • fill (something) up with
  • fill something with
  • run on
  • burn
  • ignite
  • engine
  • tank
  • car

Synonyms

  • gasoline
  • fuel
  • gas

Antonyms

  • electricity
  • diesel

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'diesel' fuel.
  • Using 'petrol' in American English contexts, where 'gas' is preferred.