Meaning and Usage
The word 燃料 (ねんりょう) primarily means "fuel" in a literal sense, referring to substances like gasoline, coal, or other materials used to produce energy or power machines. It is a common term in technical, environmental, and everyday contexts when discussing energy sources.
Common Collocations
- 燃料を使う (use fuel): Describes the act of consuming fuel for energy.
- 燃料費 (fuel cost): Refers to expenses related to fuel.
- 燃料電池 (fuel cell): A technical term for a device that generates electricity through fuel.
- 燃料を補給する (refuel): The act of adding fuel.
Figurative Use
Besides the literal meaning, 燃料 can be used metaphorically to mean "fuel" for something non-physical, such as emotions or discussions. For example, "議論に燃料を投じる" means to "fuel the debate," implying that something intensifies or provokes further discussion.
Register and Nuance
燃料 is a neutral, formal noun used in both spoken and written Japanese. It is appropriate in scientific, technical, and everyday contexts. When used figuratively, it often appears in more formal or literary contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 燃料 with ガソリン or other specific fuel types. 燃料 is a general term, while ガソリン specifically means gasoline. Also, avoid using 燃料 as a verb; it is a noun only.