煤

• Pinyin: méi
• Hanzi breakdown: 煤 = 火 (fire) + 某 (certain), a combustible substance

Meaning

Coal. A black combustible rock used as fuel.

A major fuel source historically and in modern industry. China has significant coal mining and consumption. Used for heating, electricity generation, and industrial processes. Environmental concerns have led to discussions about reducing coal usage.

Examples

1. 以前北方冬天取暖主要靠烧煤。 In the past, northern China mainly relied on burning coal for winter heating.
2. 煤矿工人的工作环境非常艰苦。 Coal miners work in extremely harsh conditions.
3. 政府正在推动减少煤炭使用，改用清洁能源。 The government is promoting reduced coal usage in favor of clean energy.

Usage Guide

Context: energy, industry, environment

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 煤是一种不可再生能源。(Coal is a non-renewable energy source.)
• 这个地区有丰富的煤炭资源。(This region has abundant coal resources.)

Don't Say

• 我买了一些煤做饭。(For cooking fuel, use 煤气 or 天然气 — raw 煤 is for heating/industry, not cooking)

Origin & History

煤 combines 火 (fire) with 某 (mǒu, something). A combustible material.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal