“Copiously” is an adverb that means in large amounts or abundantly. Here are some of its synonyms and an analysis of how they compare:
1. Abundantly
- Meaning: In a very large quantity; plentifully. For example, “The garden was abundantly filled with colorful flowers.” It is very similar to “copiously” in that it emphasizes a great quantity. The difference is quite subtle; perhaps “abundantly” can sometimes have a more positive or flourishing connotation, as if the abundance is a desirable state.
2. Profusely
- Meaning: In large amounts; extravagantly. For example, “He was sweating profusely after the intense workout.” “Profusely” often implies a sense of overflowing or being given out in a generous amount. It can also suggest a more intense or uncontrolled outpouring compared to “copiously,” especially when used to describe something like emotions or substances that are being released.
3. Amply
- Meaning: Sufficiently or more than adequately; in a plentiful manner. For example, “The book amply provides the information you need.” “Amply” emphasizes the idea of being enough or more than enough. It is similar to “copiously” in the sense of a large quantity, but it also has a connotation of fulfilling a need or expectation, whereas “copiously” just focuses on the abundance without necessarily this sense of sufficiency.
4. Plentifully
- Meaning: In a large or ample amount; bountifully. For example, “The buffet was plentifully stocked with a variety of dishes.” “Plentifully” is a close synonym to “copiously” and is used to describe a situation where there is a lot of something. The main difference might be in usage; “plentifully” seems to be more commonly used when talking about tangible objects or resources, while “copiously” can be used in a wider range of contexts, including more abstract things like ideas or words.
5. Lavishly
- Meaning: In a very generous or extravagant manner; abundantly. For example, “The party was lavishly decorated with gold and silver ornaments.” “Lavishly” implies a sense of luxury and extravagance along with abundance. It is different from “copiously” in that it often describes something that is not only abundant but also has a touch of opulence or over - the - top display, while “copiously” is more about a simple large quantity.