What is the difference between "fluid" and "liquid"?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

A "liquid" is a substance that isn't a solid or gas that pours easily and can form in the shape of a container. "Fluids" are substances that flow easily and have some thickness. Keep in mind that sometimes liquids and fluids are used interchangeably. It really depends on what you're talking about. Ex: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids/liquids when it's hot out. (interchangeable) Ex: Her car needs more brake fluid. (we don't use liquid here usually) Ex: Mercury is a liquid metal. (we don't use fluid here usually)

How do native speakers use this expression?

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Popular Q&As

05/16

1
What is the meaning of "toast"?
In this context, a "toast" is a tradition where a gathering of people give a short speech and raise their drinks together to celebrate someone or something. You can deliver a "toast" for anything you are celebrating or honoring, but it is usually done at large ceremonies like weddings. Ex: She raised her glass to give a toast to the newly married couple. Ex: I'd like to toast to a Happy New Year.

2
What is the meaning of "the plays"?
New York City is famous for its entertainment, including Broadway musicals and plays (also known as theater performances). Emma Stone is referring to this when she says, "the plays." Ex: My favorite play is Hamilton. Ex: I bought a ticket to watch a play next week.

3
What does "was to" mean?
"Was to" in this context means "to be." However, Anne Marie is using this incorrectly. Her statement is a hypothetical/unreal situation. It is a hypothetical situation due to Anne Marie using "if" in the sentence followed by the verb, "to be." She is stating that this has not happened, but is telling everyone what she thinks will if she were to fall in love. She should have said, "If I were to fall in love..." The grammatical rule for a hypothetical/unreal situation is to change the tense of "was" to "were," even if the subject is in the third person. Unfortunately, grammar isn't always used correctly in spoken English.

4
In what other situation can I use "nods"?
You can use "nods" to mean "acknowledgements" or "awards", so you can use it when discussing those things. "Nods" is not commonly used in this way.

5
What does "gotten over" mean?
To have "gotten over (something)" means "to accept an unpleasant fact or situation after dealing with it for a while". Ex: Jennifer was upset that you didn’t come, but she’s gotten over it.

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