A2noun2K

Soap

UK /["/səʊp/"]/US /["/səʊp/"]/

Definition

a substance that you use with water for washing your body

In simple words: A substance used with water for washing or cleaning.

Examples

  • Wash the affected area with **soap and water**.
  • a bar/cake of soap
  • soap bubbles
  • a soap dish
  • Avoid using perfumed soaps on sensitive skin.
  • Clean the wound with mild antibacterial soap.
  • I switched to liquid shower gel from bar soap.
  • soaps on TV
  • She's a US soap star.

Usage notes

The word 'soap' is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially in the context of personal hygiene. It’s appropriate in most settings, but may be too informal in very formal contexts like scientific discussions about chemistry.

Grammar pattern

soap + object

Memory hint

Think of 'soap' as 'soapy bubbles' that clean you.

Collocations

  • gentle
  • mild
  • perfumed
  • bar
  • cake
  • use
  • wash (something) with
  • powder
  • bubble
  • suds
  • soap and water

Synonyms

  • cleanser
  • detergent
  • washing agent
  • cleaning product

Antonyms

  • dirt
  • grime

Common mistakes

  • Confusing soap with detergent, as they have different chemical properties.
  • Using 'soaps' as a singular form incorrectly in non-count contexts.
  • Saying 'a soap' when referring to soap in general.