Definition

Adverb: - In an abundant manner; in great quantity or to a great degree: Describes an action done with abundance, often to an excessive or overflowing extent. It frequently relates to the manner of expressing something (like thanks, apologies, or sweat) or the generous flow of a substance.

Usage

The adverb "profusely" modifies a verb to indicate that the action is done copiously, lavishly, or in a very plentiful way. It often carries a connotation of being more than usual or expected.

Examples

• She apologized profusely for being late to the meeting.
• He was bleeding profusely from the cut and needed immediate medical attention.
• The flowers bloomed profusely after the spring rains.
• They thanked their hosts profusely for the wonderful dinner party.

Advanced Usage

• "to sweat/profuse": While "profuse" is an adjective, "profusely" is the standard adverbial form used with verbs like "sweat" or "bleed."
  • The athlete was sweating profusely after the marathon.
• "to thank/profuse": Used to emphasize the extent or sincerity of gratitude.
  • He thanked her profusely for her kindness.

Variants and Related Words

• Profuse (adjective): Plentiful, abundant, or given in large amounts.
  • He offered profuse apologies for the mistake.
• Profusion (noun): An abundance or large quantity of something.
  • The garden was a profusion of colors.

Synonyms

• Abundantly: In large quantities; plentifully.
• Copiously: In large amounts.
• Lavishly: In a rich, generous, or extravagant manner.
• Extravagantly: To an excessive degree; lavishly.
• Generously: In a way that shows a readiness to give more than is necessary or expected.

Antonyms

• Sparingly: In a restricted or economical manner.
• Meagerly: In a scanty or inadequate amount.
• Scarcely: Barely; hardly at all.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To bleed profusely: To lose blood in a heavy, uncontrolled flow.
• To apologize profusely: To offer many and sincere apologies.
• To thank profusely: To express gratitude repeatedly and earnestly.

Adverb

1. in an abundant manner
   • they were abundantly supplied with food
   • he thanked her profusely