Definitions
- Used to describe something that is true according to the rules or technicalities of a particular subject or field. - Used to indicate that something is possible but may not be practical or advisable. - Used to clarify a point or correct a misconception in a technical or precise manner.
- Used to emphasize that something is true or accurate in a literal sense, without exaggeration or metaphor. - Used to indicate that something is happening exactly as described, without any deviation or interpretation. - Used to clarify a point or add emphasis to a statement in a straightforward and factual manner.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are adverbs that modify verbs or adjectives.
- 2Both words are used to clarify or emphasize a point.
- 3Both words are often used in technical or precise contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Meaning: Technically refers to something that is true according to the rules or technicalities of a particular subject or field, while literally emphasizes that something is true in a literal sense without exaggeration or metaphor.
- 2Usage: Technically is often used to indicate that something is possible but may not be practical or advisable, while literally is used to indicate that something is happening exactly as described without any deviation or interpretation.
- 3Connotation: Technically can have a negative connotation, suggesting that something is being done only because it is required by the rules or regulations, while literally is generally neutral or positive, emphasizing the accuracy or truthfulness of a statement.
- 4Scope: Technically is more limited in scope, referring specifically to technical or rule-based contexts, while literally can be used in a wider range of contexts to emphasize accuracy or truthfulness.
- 5Frequency: Literally is more commonly used than technically in everyday language.
Remember this!
Technically and literally are both adverbs used to clarify or emphasize a point, but they have different meanings and connotations. Technically refers to something that is true according to the rules or technicalities of a particular subject or field, while literally emphasizes that something is true in a literal sense without exaggeration or metaphor. Technically is often used in technical or precise contexts to indicate that something is possible but may not be practical or advisable, while literally is used to indicate that something is happening exactly as described without any deviation or interpretation.
