Why do I after to use a different meauring cup for water, than sugar?

Question

I was making something and it said add 2 cups of water, so I used the same measuring cup I use for sugar to add 2 cups of water and it didn't taste right. And I was told it's because I used the wrong type of cup. Why does the water cup hold more than the sugar cup?

Answer 1

Dry goods like sugar or flour measure differently than water due to different consistencies.  That's why you should always make sure to measure liquids in a liquid measuring cup and dry goods in a regular measuring cup.

Answer 2

You don't have two. Two cups is two cups. I never heard of this before.