# literally

/ˈɫɪtɝəɫi/ (US) · /lˈɪtəɹəli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/literally
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. exactly as stated

adverb · CEFR B2

using the real or original meaning of a word, with no exaggeration.

For teachers: in a literal manner or sense; exactly as described without metaphor or exaggeration.

- The word 'idiom' literally means 'a private language' in its original Greek form.
- The translation was so precise that it followed the original text literally, preserving even the most obscure grammatical structures.

Usage: Typically modifies a verb or an entire clause to confirm factual accuracy.

Teaching tip: This is the 'correct' or traditional use that students should use in formal writing.

### 2. for emphasis

adverb · CEFR C1 · Informal

used to emphasize a strong feeling or a surprising statement, even if it is not 100% true.

For teachers: used as an intensifier for emphasis, often in contexts where the statement is actually metaphorical rather than literal.

- I was literally dying of laughter when he told that joke.
- She was literally glowing with pride after receiving the award, though obviously not in a biological sense.

Usage: Acts as a hyperbolic intensifier; common in spoken English but often criticized in formal contexts.

Teaching tip: Warn students that many native speakers find this usage annoying or 'incorrect' despite its extreme popularity in casual speech.

## Examples

- The word 'translated' literally means 'carried across'.
- The translation was so accurate that it followed the original text literally, word for word.
- While the term was originally intended to be taken literally, modern speakers often employ it as a hyperbolic intensifier to convey the emotional weight of an experience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.