Literally definitions
| Word backwards | yllaretil |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Adverb |
| Syllabic division | lit-er-al-ly |
| Plural | The plural of the word "literally" is "literally." The word does not change form when made plural. |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (3) | i,e,a |
| Consonants (4) | l,t,r,y |
When it comes to the word "literally," its usage has sparked much debate over the years. People often use it to emphasize a point or to express the true meaning of something. However, many language purists argue that it is overused and often incorrectly. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and proper usage of this controversial word.
The Definition of "Literally"
The word "literally" is an adverb used to emphasize something that actually happened in a strict sense. It is meant to be used when something is true in a literal or exact manner, without exaggeration or metaphorical meaning. For example, if someone says, "I literally ran a marathon," it means they actually ran a full 26.2 miles.
Controversial Usage
One of the reasons "literally" has become a point of contention is due to its frequent misuse as an intensifier. People often use it in place of "figuratively," which means something is metaphorically true but not in a strict, literal sense. This misuse has led to the word losing some of its power and creating confusion in communication.
Proper Usage
To use "literally" correctly, it should only be employed when describing something that happened precisely as stated. Using it in the wrong context can lead to misunderstandings or even make you sound uneducated. It's essential to reserve this word for situations where there is no room for interpretation or exaggeration.
Emphasizing the importance of using words correctly and understanding their meanings is crucial in effective communication. By using "literally" appropriately, you can convey your message clearly and avoid any potential confusion.
Literally Examples
- I literally just saw a shooting star!
- She was literally shaking with excitement.
- I am literally starving, let's get some food.
- He literally jumped for joy when he heard the news.
- The crowd was literally on fire with enthusiasm.
- I literally can't believe how fast time has flown by.
- She literally glowed with happiness on her wedding day.
- I am literally drowning in work right now.
- He was literally running on fumes after pulling an all-nighter.
- The idea was so ridiculous, I literally laughed out loud.