Abstract: A cutting and machining fluid applicable to both cutting and electrical discharge machining. This cutting and machining fluid comprises a water-soluble organic compound that shows an electrical resistivity of not less than 10,000 .OMEGA..cm when it is contained in deionized water having an electrical resistivity of not less than 1,000,000 .OMEGA..cm, in a concentration of from 1 to 10 % by weight, a nonionic surface active agent, or a mixture of these. The organic compound is selected from the group of ethylene glycols, propylene glycols, glycol monoethers, and polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters.