carbon, charcoal, coal

JLPT N2 9 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (tàn) primarily refers to charcoal or carbon-based fuel. It is commonly used in contexts related to heating, cooking, and fuel sources.

Common Collocations

  • (tànhuǒ): charcoal fire, often used in cooking or grilling.
  • (mùtàn): charcoal made from wood.
  • (huóxìngtàn): activated carbon, used for purification.

Usage Notes

is a noun and typically appears in compound words related to fuel or carbon materials. When talking about grilling or heating, is a very common phrase. It is less common to use alone in casual conversation without a modifier.

Confusions

Do not confuse with (tàn), which also means carbon but is more used in scientific contexts. is more tangible, referring to the physical charcoal used as fuel.

Example Sentences

We use charcoal fire for barbecue; the taste is especially good.

Charcoal is an important fuel, often used for heating and cooking.

This shop sells various charcoal products, such as barbecue charcoal and