Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective capacious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of capacious are ample, commodious, and spacious. While all these words mean "larger in extent or capacity than the average," capacious stresses the ability to hold, contain, or retain more than the average.

a capacious suitcase

When could ample be used to replace capacious?

In some situations, the words ample and capacious are roughly equivalent. However, ample implies having a greater size, expanse, or amount than that deemed adequate.

ample closet space

When is it sensible to use commodious instead of capacious?

The meanings of commodious and capacious largely overlap; however, commodious stresses roominess and comfortableness.

a commodious and airy penthouse apartment

When is spacious a more appropriate choice than capacious?

The synonyms spacious and capacious are sometimes interchangeable, but spacious implies great length and breadth.

a spacious front lawn

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of capacious For her part, Collins lugged around the most capacious version of the Y2K it-bag, similar to the ones carried by Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz, Lindsay Lohan, and Nicole Richie in the early aughts. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 17 Aug. 2025 Who said ludicrously capacious bags were only reserved for the Burberry owners among us? Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 15 Aug. 2025 The avenue’s capacious sidewalks were narrowed by nearly eight feet each to make way for two more lanes of car traffic. Sam Schwartz, New York Daily News, 22 July 2025 The tote is crafted with GG canvas and features a capacious design with the Gucci Web trim, made further complete with a detachable pouch. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • The two, three, and even four-bedroom residences are spacious, feature mature olive trees, relaxing grounds, and gourmet kitchens.
    Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
  • The full-beam owner’s suite, which is much bigger than that of the 26XP, comes complete with a spacious bathroom and walk-in closet.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Boston had ample scoring opportunities, particularly early in Tuesday’s loss.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Soil moisture also plays a huge role, with the MSU Forestry Extension adding that ample precipitation is required for the most robust displays of color.
    Kyle Reiman, ABC News, 16 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Capacious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capacious. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on capacious

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