石炭

• Reading: せきたん
• Romaji: sekitan
• Kanji breakdown: 石 (seki) — stone, rock; 炭 (tan) — charcoal, carbon
• Pronunciation: /se.ki.ta.n/

Meaning

Coal; a combustible black rock used as fuel.

A noun referring to the fossil fuel coal. Japan historically relied heavily on coal mining, particularly in Hokkaido and Kyushu. While coal use has declined domestically, the word appears in discussions of energy, history, and environmental issues. Related terms include 石炭火力 (coal-fired power).

Examples

1. 昔はこの地域で石炭が採れた。 Coal used to be mined in this area.
2. 石炭を燃やすと空気が汚れる。 Burning coal pollutes the air.
3. 石炭から石油へエネルギーが変わった。 Energy shifted from coal to petroleum.

Usage Guide

Context: energy, history, environment

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 石 (stone, rock) and 炭 (charcoal, carbon). Literally 'stone charcoal,' describing coal as a rock-like form of carbon that burns.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal