service station: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

In UK English, 'garage' can mean both a place to buy fuel and a place for car repairs. A 'service station' typically emphasises the fuel and convenience aspect, especially on major roads. In the US, 'garage' almost always means a repair shop.

It depends. Some larger service stations, especially older ones or those not on major highways, may have a small workshop for basic repairs like tyre changes. However, most modern motorway service stations or urban fuel stations focus on fuel, food, and convenience items, not major mechanical work.

A 'service station' is a commercial facility that sells fuel and other goods/services. A 'rest area' (or 'lay-by' in the UK) is a publicly provided stopping place, often with toilets and picnic tables, but usually without fuel or shops for purchase.

An American might use 'service station' to specifically refer to a facility that offers automotive services like oil changes and tyre repairs in addition to selling fuel, or they might use it in a more formal or written context. The everyday term is 'gas station'.

A roadside facility where fuel, basic vehicle maintenance, and often food and restrooms are available for motorists.

Service station is usually neutral to informal in register.

Service station: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɜː.vɪs ˌsteɪ.ʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɝː.vɪs ˌsteɪ.ʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.