C1nounformalenvironmentbusiness
US/pəˈtroʊ.liː.əm/
UK/pəˈtrəʊ.liː.əm/
oil taken from under the ground, used to make fuel such as gasoline
In context
The country earns most of its income from exporting petroleum.
Gasoline and diesel are made from refined petroleum.
Experts say the world must reduce its dependence on petroleum.
Words that go with petroleum
noun + noun
- petroleum productsPetroleum products include gasoline, diesel and plastics.
- petroleum industryThe petroleum industry employs thousands of workers.
- petroleum jellyPut some petroleum jelly on dry lips.
- petroleum exportsPetroleum exports fell sharply last year.
verb + noun
- refine petroleumPlants refine petroleum into fuel.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I put petroleum in my car.Correct: I put gasoline in my car.
Incorrect:
a petroleumCorrect: petroleum