B1noun1K

Liquid

UK /["/ˈlɪkwɪd/"]/US /["/ˈlɪkwɪd/"]/

Definition

a substance that flows freely and is not a solid or a gas, for example water or oil

In simple words: A substance that flows freely and is not solid.

Examples

  • She poured the dark brown liquid down the sink.
  • restrictions on passengers carrying liquids in their hand luggage
  • a flammable liquid
  • the transition from liquid to vapour
  • Drain the octopus and reserve the cooking liquid.
  • Empty the liquid into a large bowl.
  • Reduce the liquid by boiling for two minutes.
  • Strain the fruit through a sieve, discarding the liquid.
  • The cold liquid trickled down her face.
  • A car was set ablaze after a bottle containing a flammable liquid and a lighted rag was thrown at it.

Usage notes

Used in science, cooking, and everyday contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing or when discussing solids and gases specifically.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'liquid' as 'lie-could' — imagine a lying river that can take any shape.

Collocations

  • thick
  • viscous
  • thin
  • drop
  • pool
  • puddle
  • empty
  • pour
  • spill
  • drip
  • flow
  • ooze

Synonyms

  • fluid
  • water
  • juice
  • solution
  • liquor

Antonyms

  • solid
  • gas

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'solvent' — liquids can be solvents but not all are.
  • Using 'liquid' as an adjective when it should be a noun.
  • Mixing up 'liquid' with 'fluid', which can refer to both gases and liquids.