getting petrol

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting petrol" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of refueling a vehicle with gasoline, particularly in British English. Example: "I need to stop for a moment; I'm getting petrol before we continue our journey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"My biggest problem is getting petrol.

Independent

Colonel Qaddafi has switched off the internet and prevented the east from getting petrol supplies, so its transport system may falter.

The Economist

He said that only white people thought Ukip was racist, saying that, in a petrol station in Catford, south-east London, that morning "everybody was black, getting petrol, buying newspapers … and they all wanted selfies and pictures".

The Guardian

"One minute I was in the streets of Manchester, the next I was in Belfast and Dungannon [Ulster], behind the picket lines with a shield and getting petrol bombs thrown at you.

BBC

"Luckily I had my husband with me so he was able to pay, but if I was getting petrol and on my own it could have been a completely different matter". "They tried it several times and then suggested I used the cash point which I also tried but was declined," he said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Got petrol?" "More than half a tank".

The New Yorker

Civilians in Tripoli have to queue for a week to get petrol.

The Economist

After all, at the time even journalists driving close to Fukushima were able to get petrol on the main highways.

The Economist

Lorries full of supplies have been unable to get petrol on the empty expressway north, reserved for "emergency" vehicles.

The Economist

He's got petrol running through his veins and if it's got an engine, he knows about it".

The Guardian

I have no money now, but the owner of this taxi is pressuring me to get petrol.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "getting petrol", be mindful of your audience. In American English, "getting gas" or "buying gasoline" is more common. Using "getting petrol" may sound unusual or British to an American audience.

Common error

Avoid using "getting petrol" when referring to other types of oil, such as engine oil or lubricating oil. "Petrol" specifically refers to gasoline used as fuel in vehicles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting petrol" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action of acquiring gasoline, as showcased in Ludwig's examples. It commonly appears as part of a larger clause to indicate the purpose or necessity of the action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "getting petrol" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe the act of buying gasoline, primarily in British English. While Ludwig confirms its validity, remember that American English speakers more commonly use "getting gas" or "buying gasoline". The phrase appears mainly in news and media contexts. When writing, consider your audience and choose the most appropriate term for clarity. Alternative phrases include "refueling the car" or "filling up with gas", which can provide similar meaning while catering to different regional preferences. Avoid using the phrase to refer to other types of oil besides gasoline.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

buying gasoline

Replaces "petrol" with its American English equivalent "gasoline".

getting gas

American English shorter version

refueling the car

Focuses on the action of replenishing the car's fuel, rather than acquiring the fuel itself.

filling up with gas

American English alternative that highlights the action of adding fuel.

purchasing fuel

A more formal way of saying "getting petrol", focusing on the act of buying fuel.

obtaining fuel

Similar to "purchasing fuel", but slightly broader, implying acquiring fuel through any means.

topping up the tank

Highlights the action of adding fuel to increase the amount already in the tank.

buying fuel for the vehicle

Expands on the purpose of acquiring fuel, specifying it's for a vehicle.

procuring gasoline

A more formal and less common way to say "getting petrol" in American English.

supplying the car with fuel

Focuses on the act of providing the car with the necessary fuel.

FAQs

What does "getting petrol" mean?

The phrase "getting petrol" means buying gasoline for a vehicle. It's commonly used in British English; American English speakers usually say "getting gas" or "buying gasoline".

Which is correct, "getting petrol" or "getting gas"?

Both are correct, but they are used in different regions. "Getting petrol" is common in British English, while "getting gas" is common in American English.

What can I say instead of "getting petrol"?

Alternatives include "refueling the car", "filling up with gas", or "buying gasoline", depending on the context and your audience.

How would you use "getting petrol" in a sentence?

Example: "I need to stop at the station; I'm "getting petrol" before we continue our journey." You could also say, "She's gone to the garage for "getting petrol".