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Synonyms

liberally

American  
[lib-er-uh-lee, lib-ruh-lee] / ˈlɪb ər ə li, ˈlɪb rə li /

adverb

  1. in a way that is favorable to progress or reform, or that reflects the views of a political party advocating this.

    He voted a lot more liberally than he campaigned, which may have had something to do with his reelection loss.

  2. in a way that is not bound by traditional or conventional ideas or values, especially prejudice or bigotry.

    Our goal is to be an intentionally open, intellectual, and liberally inclusive community.

  3. in large amounts; generously; abundantly.

    Sprinkle liberally with paprika, sea salt, and chili oil.

  4. in a way that is not strict, literal, or rigorous.

    This charter shall be liberally and broadly construed in favor of allowing the city to exercise its power.

    The story was liberally adapted from a popular Chinese folk tale.

  5. in the liberal arts.

    What does it mean to be liberally educated in 21st-century America?


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of liberally

liberal ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She spoke at a Democratic women’s meeting; then to a chapter of the group Drinking Liberally, part of the Living Liberally umbrella organization.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

Liberally spiked with whatever aromatics I have around, it’s become an anchor of my summer weeknight cooking.

From New York Times • Aug. 12, 2021

Liberally add 4 to 6 inches of compost, agricultural lime and a balanced fertilizer and incorporate them into the top 8 to 12 inches with a digging fork or spade.

From Seattle Times • May 5, 2021

Liberally peopled with the “legendary” and the “famed,” the book is overwhelmed by its author’s desire to represent those most important to him as outsize.

From Washington Post

I beg your Ladyship—ten thousand Pardons—you paid me extremely Liberally for the Lie in question—but I unfortunately have been offer'd double to speak the Truth.

From School for Scandal by Sheridan, Richard Brinsley

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