Word: Soft Coal
Definition: Soft coal is a type of coal that is rich in tarry hydrocarbons. It burns easily and produces a smoky yellow flame. It is often used for heating and generating electricity.
Usage Instructions:
Noun form: Use "soft coal" when talking about this specific type of coal.
It is often used in discussions about energy, mining, and environmental topics.
Example Sentence:
Advanced Usage:
In technical discussions about energy production, you might say, "Soft coal, also known as bituminous coal, is utilized in various industrial applications due to its high carbon content."
Word Variants:
Hard Coal: This is a different type of coal that burns cleaner and produces more heat but is harder to ignite.
Anthracite: A type of hard coal that is even denser and burns more efficiently than soft coal.
Different Meanings:
While "soft coal" primarily refers to this type of coal, the adjective "soft" can also describe something that is gentle, not hard, or easy to touch. For example, "soft fabric" means a fabric that is pleasant to touch.
Synonyms:
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "soft coal," but you might hear phrases like "burning the midnight oil," which means working late into the night, often requiring energy—similar to how soft coal is an energy source.
Summary:
In summary, "soft coal" is a valuable energy resource that is easy to ignite and burns with a smoky flame.