literally

[ˈlɪtərəli]

literally Definition

  • 1used to emphasize the truth and accuracy of something, often to the point of exaggeration
  • 2in a literal manner or sense; exactly

Using literally: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "literally" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I literally died laughing.

  • Example

    The book was so boring that I literally fell asleep.

  • Example

    He was literally running for his life.

  • Example

    She was literally jumping for joy.

literally Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for literally

Phrases with literally

  • used to indicate that what follows is meant to be taken in a strictly factual or objective sense

    Example

    Literally speaking, the earth revolves around the sun.

  • a statement that is true in a strictly factual or objective sense

    Example

    It is literally true that water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • a word or phrase that has been translated from one language to another in a strictly literal or word-for-word manner

    Example

    The phrase 'je ne sais quoi' is literally translated as 'I don't know what'.

Origins of literally

from Latin 'literalis', meaning 'of or belonging to letters or writing'

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Summary: literally in Brief

The term 'literally' [ˈlɪtərəli] is used to emphasize the truth or accuracy of something, often to the point of exaggeration. It can also mean 'in a literal manner or sense; exactly.' Common phrases include 'literally speaking,' 'literally true,' and 'literally translated.' Synonyms include 'actually,' 'truly,' and 'really.'

How do native speakers use this expression?