literally

[ lit-er-uh-lee ]

adverb

1. in the literal or strict sense:

   She failed to grasp the metaphor and interpreted the poem literally.

   What does the word mean literally?

2. in a literal manner; word for word:

   to translate literally.

3. actually; without exaggeration or inaccuracy:

   The city was literally destroyed.

4. in effect; in substance; very nearly; virtually:

   I literally died when she walked out on stage in that costume.

literally

/ ˈlɪtərəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a literal manner
2. (intensifier)

   there were literally thousands of people

Usage Note

Since the early 19th century, literally has been widely used as an intensifier meaning “in effect, virtually,” a sense that contradicts the earlier meaning “actually, without exaggeration”: The senator was literally buried alive in the Iowa primaries. The parties were literally trading horses in an effort to reach a compromise. The use is often criticized; nevertheless, it appears in all but the most carefully edited writing. Although this use of literally irritates some, it probably neither distorts nor enhances the intended meaning of the sentences in which it occurs. The same might often be said of the use of literally in its earlier sense “actually”: The garrison was literally wiped out: no one survived.

Usage

The use of literally as an intensifier is common, esp in informal contexts. In some cases, it provides emphasis without adding to the meaning: the house was literally only five minutes walk away. Often, however, its use results in absurdity: the news was literally an eye-opener to me. It is therefore best avoided in formal contexts

Word History and Origins

Origin of literally¹

First recorded in 1525–35; literal + -ly

Example Sentences

"Parliament will have sat for just 12 weeks by the time MPs vote on what is, quite literally, a matter of life and death."

From BBC

“Bailey is literally like my little brother. When he first got to Nashville, he was like, ‘Man, I’m just so glad to meet you.’

From Los Angeles Times

His current role in the TV drama “Sullivan’s Crossing,” was, quite literally, the answer to two years of prayers.

From Los Angeles Times

After Edward elects to undergo an experimental medical treatment, he begins to transform — his old face literally crumbles off — and the theme accentuates his melancholy and metamorphosis with dark beauty and sludgy textures.

From Los Angeles Times

"Literally all I had was some stabbing pain on a Sunday night. I went to the doctor and was sent for an ultrasound on the Tuesday."

From BBC

Related Words

• actually
• completely
• directly
• plainly
• precisely
• really
• simply
• truly