adv
literally
LIH-tuh-ruh-lee
adv
1
In a literal, exact sense; word for word, without exaggeration.
"The translator rendered the poem literally, word for word."
"He literally ran five miles this morning — no exaggeration."
2
(informal) Used to add emphasis to a statement, even when it isn't meant word for word.
"I was literally dying of laughter during that scene."
How to Use Literally
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishExactly as stated — though in casual speech it's often used just to add emphasis, even to statements that clearly aren't literal.
Common mistake
Using "literally" for statements that are obviously exaggerated ("I literally died") is extremely common in speech but frowned on in formal writing, since it undercuts the word's original precise meaning.
When to use it
The emphatic, non-literal use of "literally" is informal; avoid it in careful writing.
Word Forms
more literally comparative, most literally superlative
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The translator rendered the poem _____, word for word.