student asking question

What's the difference of "soak" and "absorb"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Soak" and "absorb" are very similar and can often be used interchangeably. However, there are a few differences between the two. "Soak" implies that something is taken in by being in liquid. Ex: They were soaked from the rain. Ex: Soak the dishes in warm water. "Absorb" implies that a substance is taken in, but it does not have to be in liquid to do so. This word is also often used for the intake of information and ideas, and not just physical things. Ex: She is good at absorbing information. Ex: Plants need to absorb sunlight.

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