Dictionary Entry
Literally
adverbFind the meaning of the word Literally, plus dictionary definition, pronunciation, thesaurus-style synonyms, antonyms, and related vocabulary.
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Meaning
Dictionary meaning in a clear, student-friendly format.
In a literal manner or sense; exactly as stated; without exaggeration. It emphasizes that something is true in every sense, not just metaphorically or hyperbolically.
Example Sentence
The concert was so loud that my ears were literally ringing for hours afterward, meaning they were actually making a ringing sound.
Usage Note
Use "literally" when you want to emphasize that something is true in every sense, not just metaphorically. For example, if you say "I literally ran a marathon," it means you actually completed the race, not just that you ran a long distance. Avoid using it as a general intensifier when you mean "figuratively" or "very," as this can lead to confusion about your intended meaning.