literally

B2
Pronunciation
/ˈlɪtəɹəli/
/ˈlɪ.ɾɚ.ə.li/
Adverb
4 definition(s)
1 Definition

Word for word; not figuratively; not as an idiom or metaphor

Synonyms
actually really
Antonyms
figuratively metaphorically virtually
Example Sentences
  • When I saw on the news that there would be no school tomorrow because of the snowstorm, I literally jumped for joy, and hit my head on the ceiling fan.
2 Definition

(degree, contranym) Used non-literally as an intensifier for figurative statements: virtually, so to speak (often considered incorrect; see usage notes)

Synonyms
virtually
Example Sentences
  • He was so surprised, he literally jumped twenty feet in the air.
3 Definition

Used to intensify or dramatise non-figurative statements; tending towards a meaningless filler word in repeated use.

Example Sentences
  • I had no idea, so I was literally guessing.
4 Definition

Used as a generic downtoner: just, merely.

Synonyms
merely
Example Sentences
  • You literally put it in the microwave for five minutes and it's done.