Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[erik19283]

Hello,

Could anyone tell me how you call the liquid like substance coming out of your nose when you have a cold?

Thank you.

[rice07]

"nasal mucus"; "snot"(but "snot" is a word that some people find offensive).

[erik19283]

Thank you for your answer, rice07.

I was wondering if native speakers would also use the term "snivel". I found it in the dictionary, but it doesn't mean it's commonly used, so could anyone tell me if that word ("snivel") would be correct to say what I described and if it is used or not?

Also, "nasal mucus" seems a bit formal to me. Of course, I may be wrong, so tell me if I am. On the other hand, if I'm not, what would be a more commonly spoken word for that "nasal mucus" ? Is "snot" the only other option? As it may be offensive to some people I hope there is something else.

[CP]

I've never heard anyone use "snivel" as a substitute for "snot." I have heard it as a verb, when someone is crying and sniffing and all that, and maybe someone would say, "Oh, stop sniveling."

Usually we don't refer to the fluid itself, but say things like, "I have a runny nose," "I have to blow my nose," "I have nasal drip today," and so on.
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