The Traditional Meaning of “Literally”
Traditionally, “literally” means “in a literal manner” or “exactly as stated.” For example, if you say, “I literally ran five miles,” it means you actually ran that distance, not more, not less, and not figuratively.
Examples:
- He literally jumped over the fence. (He actually jumped over it.)
- The book was literally on the table. (The book was physically on the table.)
The Modern Figurative Sense of “Literally”
In recent years, “literally” has been used for emphasis, even when the statement is not strictly true. This figurative use is common in informal speech and writing, especially among younger speakers and in popular culture. When someone says, “I was so hungry, I was literally starving,” they usually mean they were very hungry, not actually dying from starvation.
Why Has the Meaning Changed?
Language constantly evolves, and “literally” is a perfect example of this process. People began using it as a way to add intensity or emotion to their statements, even if the situation wasn’t literal. Over time, this usage became widespread and is now recognized in many dictionaries as an accepted secondary meaning.
How to Use “Literally” in Its Figurative Sense
Using “literally” figuratively is common in casual conversation and informal writing. However, it’s important to be aware of your audience. In academic or formal settings, the traditional meaning is preferred. Here are some tips for using “literally” in its modern figurative sense:
1. Use for Emphasis
When you want to stress how intense or extreme a situation is, “literally” can help amplify your point.
- Example: “I was so embarrassed, I literally wanted to disappear.”
2. Add Humor or Drama
The figurative use often adds a humorous or dramatic effect to your statement.
- Example: “That movie was so scary, I literally jumped out of my seat!”
3. Be Aware of Context
While many people accept the figurative use, some language purists may find it incorrect. In professional or academic writing, stick to the traditional meaning to avoid confusion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing “literally”: Using it too often can make your speech sound exaggerated or less credible.
- Mixing up meanings: In formal contexts, avoid the figurative sense to maintain clarity.
- Causing confusion: If your listener or reader takes your words at face value, using “literally” figuratively can lead to misunderstandings.
How to Practice Using “Literally” Correctly
As with any new language feature, practice is key. Try these activities:
- Write sentences using “literally” in both traditional and figurative senses.
- Listen to native speakers, such as in Talkpal’s AI conversations or English podcasts, and note how they use “literally.”
- Ask a language partner or tutor to give you feedback on your usage.
Conclusion
Understanding how to use “literally” in its modern figurative sense is an important part of mastering contemporary English. While some may debate its correctness, its figurative use is widely accepted in informal speech and writing. As you continue your language learning journey with resources like Talkpal, pay attention to how words like “literally” change over time and adapt your usage to different contexts. This awareness will not only improve your fluency but also help you connect with native speakers on a deeper level.
