Disclosed is a liquid composition for the oral cavity which contains isopropyl methyl phenol. The isopropyl methyl phenol-containing liquid composition for the oral cavity is contains (A) a nonionic surfactant, (B) a wetting agent selected from among glycerin, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycols and sorbitol, (C) 1-menthol, (D) a para-hydroxybenzoate and (E) a fragrance material selected from among 3-octanol, 3-octyl acetate, 3-octanone and fenchone. The total amount of component (B) contained in the composition is 5-20% by mass of the total mass of the composition, and substantially no ethanol is contained in the composition. The composition exhibits high penetration and high bactericidal effect on periodontal disease-causing biofilms, is free from the unpleasant taste caused by isopropyl methyl phenol, and has excellent feeling of use and good appearance stability.
