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Asphalt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ›ฃ๏ธ
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asphalt

[หˆรฆsfรฆlt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

road construction material

Asphalt is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It is used in road construction to pave roads and parking lots. Asphalt is a popular choice due to its durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic.

Synonyms

bitumen, pavement, tar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
asphalt

Use this term when referring to the material commonly used for road surfaces and pavements. This is a general term and is widely recognized.

  • The city plans to repave the main street with asphalt next month.
  • Asphalt roads are very common in urban areas due to their durability.
bitumen

This term is used more in construction and engineering contexts, particularly when referring to the sticky, black, and highly viscous form of petroleum or for describing the substance in its raw state.

  • Bitumen is a key ingredient in making good-quality asphalt for roads.
  • Engineers tested the bitumen to ensure it meets safety standards.
tar

This term refers to the dark, thick substance that is derived from wood or coal and is used for sealing and waterproofing. It's less commonly used to describe road surfaces, but more for the substance itself. It may have a slightly negative connotation due to its sticky and messy nature.

  • The workers applied tar to the roof to prevent leaks.
  • Her shoes got stuck in the fresh tar on the road.
pavement

Use this term to describe the surface of a road, sidewalk, or path that is designed for walking or driving. It's often used to refer to sidewalks specifically in American English.

  • Watch out for cracks in the pavement while walking to school.
  • The city council is investing in better pavement for pedestrian areas.

Examples of usage

  • The workers laid down a fresh layer of asphalt on the highway.
  • The parking lot was resurfaced with asphalt last year.
Context #2 | Noun

roofing material

Asphalt is also used as a roofing material, known as asphalt shingles. These shingles are durable, affordable, and come in a variety of colors.

Synonyms

roof shingles, roofing material.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
asphalt

Commonly used in road construction and paving, suitable for describing streets, highways, and other paved surfaces.

  • The city is planning to repave the main street with asphalt.
  • The asphalt on this road needs maintenance.
roofing material

A more general term referring to any materials used in the construction or repair of roofs. Can include shingles, tiles, metal sheets, etc.

  • Choosing the right roofing material is crucial for durability.
  • There are many types of roofing materials available on the market.
roof shingles

Specific to residential or commercial roofing, these are individual overlapping elements used to protect a roof from the weather.

  • We need to replace some of the roof shingles after the storm.
  • The roof shingles come in different colors and materials.

Examples of usage

  • The house has asphalt shingles on the roof.
  • The roofing company offers both asphalt and metal roofing options.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'asphalt'

The word 'asphalt' comes from the Ancient Greek แผ„ฯƒฯ†ฮฑฮปฯ„ฮฟฯ‚ (รกsphaltos), which means 'secure' or 'safe'. Asphalt has been used for thousands of years, with evidence of its use found in ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and Egyptians. In modern times, asphalt has become a key material in road construction and roofing applications.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,655 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.