LogFAQs > #884337092

Pop makes sense because it's the sound it makes when you open it, although apparently it started as a shortened version of phosphate. It's technically the best term simply because pop can't mean anything else.

Soda makes sense because they are made with bubbly water. It does just mean bubbly or carbonated water, but confusion is rare. Sodapop is an option to remove confusion.

Soft drink makes sense because they aren't hard (no alcohol). Could also refer to other non-alcoholic drinks, though.

Calling it a Coke when it's not a Coke is the dumbest fucking thing. I can't even believe this is a regional term.