What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quicksand
Example
The hiker got stuck in the quicksand and had to be rescued. [quicksand: noun]
Example
I feel like I'm sinking in quicksand with all these deadlines. [quicksand: metaphorical usage]
marsh
Example
The birdwatcher spotted a rare species of bird in the marsh. [marsh: noun]
Example
The construction crew had to drain the marsh before building the road. [marsh: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Marsh is more commonly used than quicksand in everyday language. Marsh is a well-known term for a type of wetland, while quicksand is less common and often associated with adventure stories or movies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quicksand and marsh?
Both quicksand and marsh are relatively informal terms, but marsh is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.