Gas: meaning, definitions and examples

When not used to refer to gasoline, it can also mean a state of matter with no fixed shape, often referring to natural gas for heating and cooking.

• We need to check for gas leaks in the kitchen.
• Natural gas is becoming a more popular option for home heating.

This term is used mainly in British English and other Commonwealth countries to refer to gasoline. It is equivalent to 'gas' in American English.

• I need to fill the car with petrol before we head out.
• Petrol prices have risen sharply this year.

A general term that includes any material that is burned or altered to obtain energy. It can refer to gasoline, diesel, coal, wood, or any other source of energy. This term is more technical and scientific.

• The plane was running low on fuel.
• Renewable fuels are better for the environment.

Specifically refers to the fossil fuel used for heating homes, cooking, and generating electricity. It is a more technical term and often used in energy discussions.

• Natural gas prices have gone up this winter.
• Many power plants are switching to natural gas.

Commonly used in American English to refer to gasoline, the fuel used in cars.

• I need to stop at the gas station to fill up my car.
• The car is running low on gas.

Refers to a substance in a gaseous state, especially when it transitions from a liquid or solid to a gas. Often used in scientific contexts or discussions about humidity.

• The bathroom mirror fogged up due to the vapor from the hot shower.
• Water vapor is a significant greenhouse gas.

This word can refer to someone talking a lot but can also mean fuel for cars or a state of matter. When referring to speech, it’s often used informally and can have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting meaningless talk.

• He tends to gas on about his favorite movies even if no one is listening.
• They were gassing about their weekend plans.

Chatter refers to continuous, light, and often trivial conversation. It's often used when describing friendly or casual conversations that don’t go into depth on any serious topics.

• They chattered happily over coffee at the cafe.
• The children were chattering excitedly about the upcoming field trip.

Babble is used to describe someone speaking quickly and excitedly in an incomprehensible way. It's often used to describe the speech of small children or someone who's nervous or overly excited.

• The baby started to babble happily when she saw her toys.
• He babbled nervously during the interview, unable to focus on the questions.

Blabber is used when someone talks too much, often divulging secrets or unnecessary details. It has a negative connotation, implying that the person should be more discreet.

• Stop blabbering about the surprise party! You’re going to ruin it.
• She blabbered on about her personal life to everyone she met.