What is the Opposite(Antonym) of “metaphorical”?

The Opposite(Antonym) of “metaphorical”

The antonyms of metaphorical are literal, actual, and real. The antonyms literal, actual, and real convey a meaning that is straightforward, factual, and not figurative.

Explore all Antonyms of “metaphorical”

• literal
• actual
• real
• factual

Definitions and Examples of literal, actual, real

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

literal

Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.

Example

When he said he was hungry, he meant it in the literal sense.

actual

Existing in fact; real or factual.

Example

The actual cost of the project was much higher than what was estimated.

real

Existing or occurring as fact; not imagined or supposed.

Example

The real reason for his absence was not disclosed to anyone.

Key Differences: literal vs actual vs real

• 1. Literal refers to the exact meaning of words without any figurative language.
• 2. Actual refers to something that exists in reality, as opposed to something that is imagined or hypothetical.
• 3. Real refers to something that is true or factual, as opposed to something that is imaginary or fictional.

Effective Usage of literal, actual, real

• 1. Clarify Meaning: Use literal to emphasize the exact meaning of words.
• 2. Distinguish Reality: Use actual to differentiate between what is real and what is not.
• 3. Confirm Facts: Use real to confirm the truth or factual nature of something.

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Remember this!

The antonyms have distinct nuances: Literal refers to the exact meaning of words, actual refers to something that exists in reality, and real refers to something that is true or factual. Use these words to clarify meaning, distinguish reality, and confirm facts.