Word
figuratively
Meanings
In a non-literal or metaphorical way; not meant to be taken exactly.
Used to emphasize that a statement is an exaggeration rather than an exact fact.
Definition
Figuratively means in a non-literal way, using a metaphor or image to express an idea.
Figuratively is used when you do not mean the exact, literal meaning of the words. Instead, you mean something like a comparison, exaggeration, or metaphor to communicate a feeling or idea. It often contrasts with literally, which means the exact truth.
Examples
- After the meeting, I was figuratively drowning in emails.
- She said her heart was figuratively broken after the news.
- The city was figuratively asleep by midnight.
- He was figuratively on fire during the debate.
Common mistake
Learners often use figuratively when they actually mean literally, especially when describing something that is true in a factual, exact way.
More at B2 level
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- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
More adverbs
- farther Farther means at a greater physical distance than something else.
- further Further means at a greater distance or to a greater degree, or it refers to additional things.
- literally Literally means “in the exact, real sense,” not figuratively or as an exaggeration.
- accordingly In a way that is appropriate to the situation or follows logically from it.
- allegedly Used to say something is claimed to be true but has not been proven.