Word
literally
Meanings
In the exact, true sense of the words; not figuratively.
Used for emphasis to show something feels extremely true or intense (often informal and not always factually exact).
Definition
Literally means “in the exact, real sense,” not figuratively or as an exaggeration.
Literally is used to say that something is true in the exact, factual meaning of the words. It contrasts with figuratively, where words are not meant to be taken exactly. In everyday speech, some people also use literally for strong emphasis, even when the statement is not strictly true, but this can sound informal or be criticized.
Examples
- I literally forgot my keys on the table.
- The instructions say to literally turn the device off before cleaning it.
- She literally ran to catch the bus.
- He was so embarrassed he literally couldn’t speak for a moment.
Common mistake
Learners often use literally for exaggeration in formal writing, where it is better to use really, truly, or figuratively instead.
More at B1 level
- empathy Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings.
- metaphor A metaphor is a way of describing something by saying it is something else to create a clear image …
- democracy Democracy is a system of government in which people choose their leaders through voting.
- simile A simile is a comparison that says one thing is like or as another.
- protagonist A protagonist is the main character in a story, play, or film.
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.
- figuratively Figuratively means in a non-literal way, using a metaphor or image to express an idea.
- 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.