coal

word

/ˈkoʊɫ/
kohl
/kˈəʊl/
kohl

Definition

A hard black or dark brown rock that is burned as a fuel. It is also used in some industries to produce heat and electricity.

Usage & Nuances

Usually an uncountable noun when talking about the material: 'a pile of coal'. Common collocations include 'coal mine', 'coal miner', and 'coal-fired power plant'. Do not confuse it with 'charcoal', which is a processed fuel used for cooking or heating.

Example Sentences

They found coal under the ground.

basic

The train used coal many years ago.

basic

The factory burns coal to make energy.

basic

My grandfather worked in a coal mine when he was young.

natural

A lot of towns grew because of the coal industry.

natural

People are trying to use less coal and more clean energy.

natural