I always hear these two terms used and I’m aware that you can’t quick rise on a hard knockdown but I don’t know what leads to each. Do all sweeps lead to hard knock down or is it just from knockdowns from special moves. Any input is appreciated.
I’m going to assume you’re referring to Street Fighter 4. Throws and sweeps are universal hard knockdowns (like you said, you can’t quick rise). Most specials cause a soft knockdown but there are other char specific specials that cause hard knockdowns, examples are Ibuki’s neckbreaker.
It is also worth noting that landing a successful super or ultra grant a hard knockdown as well.