"Mud" vs. "muck": a messy comparison

What is similar?

Both "mud" and "muck" refer to wet, soft, and messy substances that can soil or dirty objects and people. They are associated with soil mixed with water and are often used to describe muddy or boggy conditions. Both words can also be used metaphorically to represent difficult or messy situations.

What is different?

"Mud" specifically denotes wet, soft earth resulting from the mixing of soil and water. It is a general term for such conditions. "Muck" can refer to mud but also encompasses dirt, filth, or manure, often with a stronger connotation of being unpleasant or foul. Additionally, "muck" can be used as a verb meaning to remove manure or to mess up something (e.g., "Don't muck up the plan").

Which one is more common?