What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
literalness
Example
The translator's literalness ensured that the meaning of the text was not lost. [literalness: noun]
Example
His literalness in interpreting the instructions caused some confusion. [literalness: noun]
literalism
Example
His literalism prevented him from seeing the metaphorical meaning of the poem. [literalism: noun]
Example
The religious leader's literalism led to a narrow interpretation of scripture. [literalism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Literalness is more commonly used than literalism in everyday language. Literalness is a neutral term that can be applied to various contexts, while literalism is often associated with religion, ideology, or philosophy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between literalness and literalism?
Both literalness and literalism can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, literalness is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it more appropriate for formal situations.
