Copious: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to emphasize a very large amount of something, often with a connotation of it being overwhelming or more than necessary.

• She took copious notes during the lecture.
• There were copious amounts of food at the banquet.

Use when describing a large quantity that is more than enough, often in a positive context.

• The garden was abundant with flowers.
• They have an abundant supply of fresh water.

When there is a generous or sufficient amount of something, often used for resources or goods.

• The harvest this year was plentiful.
• Opportunities for jobs in this industry are plentiful.

Best used when describing an adequate or more than sufficient quantity, especially in terms of space or time.

• There is ample parking available at the venue.
• We had ample time to complete the project.

Generally used to describe something being given or offered in a large amount, often excessively so and may have a slightly negative connotation.

• He apologized profusely for his mistake.
• They gave her profuse compliments, making her blush.

Use 'copious' to imply a large quantity of something, often in a neutral or positive sense. It conveys abundance without necessarily implying waste.

• She took copious notes during the lecture.
• The garden was filled with copious flowers.

Use 'excessive' when describing something that is more than necessary or reasonable, often with a negative connotation.

• His spending on luxury items is excessive.
• The noise from the party was excessive and disruptive.

Use 'overflowing' to describe something that is filled beyond its capacity, often implying abundance that is visually apparent.

• The river was overflowing after the heavy rains.
• The basket was overflowing with fruit.

Use 'extravagant' when referring to wasteful spending or actions that are overly lavish or luxurious, often with a negative conotation.

• Her extravagant lifestyle quickly drained her savings.
• The wedding was extravagant, with no expenses spared.