Literally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
literally
[หlษชtษrษli ]
Definitions
in everyday speech
Used for emphasis or to express the speaker's strong feeling or opinion.
Examples of usage
- He was literally shaking with anger.
- This movie is literally the best thing I've ever seen.
- I literally can't believe what I'm seeing.
- She's literally the funniest person I know.
in a formal context
Used to mean 'in a literal sense' without exaggeration or metaphorically.
Examples of usage
- The contract stipulates that the work must be completed by a specific date, and failure to do so will result in penalties. This is a literal interpretation of the agreement.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'literally' surged in popularity in the 21st century, often used for emphasis in everyday conversation.
- In memes and social media, the misuse of 'literally' has sparked humorous debates about language and precision.
- Popular expressions like 'I literally can't even' reflect contemporary trends where exaggeration is common in casual dialogue.
Language Evolution
- 'Literally' began to be used informally to emphasize hyperbole, leading to debates about language correctness.
- The American Heritage Dictionary recognizes the informal use of 'literally' in contexts where the meaning is exaggerated.
- Language experts argue that changes in word usage often reflect evolving communication styles among speakers.
Psychology
- Using 'literally' can enhance the emotional impact of statements, making them feel more vivid and intense.
- Cognitive studies show that people remember information better when it is presented with literal clarity, improving understanding.
- Misinterpretations of 'literally' in hyperbolic contexts can lead to confusion in communication, emphasizing the need for clarity.
Literature
- In literary analysis, 'literally' serves to differentiate between textual meanings and metaphorical interpretations.
- Writers often play with the term to create irony, where 'literally' conveys humor or contrasts with absurdity in narratives.
- Classic literature frequently employs the concept of 'literal' meaning to explore themes of truth and perception in charactersโ lives.
Origin of 'literally'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'litteralis', meaning 'of letters', reflecting its original use in written language.
- In the 14th century, the term began to signify a literal interpretation, leading to its modern usage.
- Initially, it was used in contrast to 'figuratively', which implies a more imaginative or metaphorical meaning.
The word 'literally' originates from the Late Middle English period, coming from the Latin word 'literalis', meaning 'of or belonging to letters or writing'. Over time, its usage has evolved to include both the literal sense and as an intensifier for emphasis in informal speech.
See also: literalist, literalistic.