Literarily: meaning, definitions and examples
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literarily
[ ˈlɪtəˌrɛrɪli ]
literal meaning
Literarily refers to the interpretation of words or phrases in their most basic sense without metaphor or exaggeration. It often pertains to textual analysis or reading, where meanings are taken at face value.
Synonyms
actually, exactly, verbatim.
Examples of usage
- The phrase was taken literally by the audience.
- She understood the joke literally, which led to confusion.
- In a literary discussion, we often analyze texts literally before considering deeper meanings.
literary context
In a literary context, literarily can refer to the appreciation or critique of literature, emphasizing its artistic aspects or the manner in which it is composed. This use often involves an exploration of style and narrative techniques.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The novel was literarily groundbreaking when it was published.
- She approached the poem literarily, focusing on its rhythm and structure.
- His analysis was literarily rich, offering insights into character development.
Etymology
The word 'literarily' derives from 'literary', which originates from the Latin word 'litera', meaning 'letter'. It entered the English language in the 16th century, initially used to refer to the written form of language as opposed to oral traditions. Over time, 'literary' evolved to encompass not only the written word but also the study and appreciation of literature as an art form. The adverbial form 'literarily' developed to describe actions or interpretations that are specifically related to literature or written texts. The modern understanding often contrasts literal interpretations with those that acknowledge metaphorical language or artistic expression, reflecting the complexities of reading and interpreting literary works.