Master confusing words with ease
Literally vs. Figuratively
Literally
/ˈlɪtərəli/Examples:
He literally looks as if he had been varnished all over.'He had, almost literally, been cut to ribbons.Aramis rose, his eyes literally bloodshot, his mouth trembling convulsively.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Figuratively
/ˈfɪɡj(ə)rətɪvli/Examples:
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Literally is used to describe something that actually happened and is true without exaggeration. Imagine a dictionary—literal meanings are what you find there.
- Figuratively is when you describe something with a metaphor, suggesting similarity, but not actual fact—like saying Im drowning in work.'
- Remember that literally should not be used when you are speaking in exaggeration or metaphorically.
- If youre trying to emphasize the reality of something, use literally.'
- Use figuratively when you want to express an idea through metaphor or imagery, not reality.
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