# liberally

**Pronunciation:** /ˈlɪbərəli/ · lib-er-uh-lee

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning 1: Quantity

In a generous or ample quantity; freely.

## Examples

- She seasoned the chicken liberally with salt and pepper before roasting it.
- The artist applied paint liberally to the canvas, creating bold, sweeping strokes.
- He liberally shared his knowledge and experience with his junior colleagues.

## Meaning 2: Politics

In a way that respects individual rights and freedoms, often associated with progressive social policies.

## Examples

- The country's laws are interpreted liberally, ensuring broad protections for citizens.
- She votes liberally, consistently supporting policies aimed at social equality.
- The government was criticized for not acting liberally enough on environmental issues.

## Synonyms

- freely — Without restriction or hesitation.
- generously — Giving or providing more than is strictly necessary.
- amply — In a sufficient or more than sufficient amount.
- profusely — To a great degree; in large amounts (often used with sweating, bleeding, apologizing).

## Antonyms

- sparingly — In a restricted or infrequent manner.
- meagerly — In a very small or insufficient amount.

## Common patterns

- liberally apply — To put on a large amount of something. — Remember to liberally apply moisturizer after showering.
- liberally sprinkle — To scatter a large amount of something over a surface. — She liberally sprinkled parmesan cheese over her pasta.
- liberally interpret — To understand or explain something in a broad, flexible way. — The judge chose to liberally interpret the old statute in light of modern circumstances.

## Collocations

- apply liberally — You should apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin every two hours.
- season liberally — Chefs often advise to season meat liberally for best flavor.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/liberally

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