煤气

• Pinyin: méi qì
• Hanzi breakdown: 煤 = 火 (fire) + 某 (certain); 气 = simplified from 氣, gas or air

Meaning

Coal gas; gas (for cooking or heating). Combustible gas used as household fuel.

Originally referred to gas derived from coal, now generally refers to any fuel gas used in homes for cooking and heating, including natural gas. Safety concerns around gas leaks are common. Being replaced by natural gas (天然气) in many areas.

Examples

1. 出门前一定要检查煤气有没有关好。 Be sure to check that the gas is turned off before going out.
2. 厨房好像有煤气味，快开窗通风。 There seems to be a gas smell in the kitchen; quickly open the windows for ventilation.
3. 这个小区已经用天然气代替了煤气。 This residential area has already replaced coal gas with natural gas.

Usage Guide

Context: household, safety, everyday

Tone: practical

Do Say

• 煤气用完了，得换一罐。(The gas is used up; we need to replace the tank.)
• 闻到煤气味要立刻打开窗户。(If you smell gas, open the windows immediately.)

Don't Say

• 我开车加了煤气。(For vehicles, use 汽油 or 油 — 煤气 is for household cooking/heating)

Origin & History

煤 (méi, coal) + 气 (qì, gas). Gas derived from or similar to coal gas.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal