Solid or hard?

[IreneRead]

Could you please explain what the difference is between the synonyms? In the passage from a book the author (an American) writes: “… she was fat, but her fat looked solid”. Can I say “her fat looked hard” instead? Will the replacement influence the reader’s perception?

Thank you in advance.

[billmcd]

Could you please explain what the difference is between the synonyms? In the passage from a book the author (an American) writes: “… she was fat, but her fat looked solid”. Can I say “her fat looked hard” instead? Will the replacement influence the reader’s perception? Yes, I think it would, at least, for me. "Solid", again for me, creates an image of one who, although overweight, is in good shape/condition. I don't believe "hard" and "fat" work well together.

Thank you in advance.

b.

[Barb_D]

In addition, "hard" has a connotation of being mean, angry, unkind.

[IreneRead]

Thanks a lot!