From literal plus -ly, ultimately from Latin littera, meaning a letter of the alphabet. The exact sense is old, while the emphatic use has been documented since the 18th century.
From literal plus -ly, ultimately from Latin littera, meaning a letter of the alphabet. The exact sense is old, while the emphatic use has been documented since the 18th century.
What does literally mean?
literally means in the exact or plain sense, without metaphor.
Can literally be used for emphasis?
Yes. literally is often used informally to add force, even when the statement is exaggerated.
Is the emphatic use of literally new?
No. Dictionary evidence records emphatic literally from the 18th century.
Is literally the same as figuratively?
No. The emphatic use does not mean figuratively, it works more like really or virtually.
Should literally be used in formal writing?
Use literally in formal writing only when exact truth or exact wording is meant.
What is the opposite of literally?
The usual opposite is figuratively, meaning in a metaphorical or non-literal way.