The "in effect; virtually" meaning of literally is not new. It has been in regular use since the 18th century and may be found in the writings of some of the most highly regarded writers of the 19th and early …

If you translate literally, you translate each word in a text separately, without looking at how the words are used together in a phrase or sentence:

LITERALLY definition: in the literal or strict sense. See examples of literally used in a sentence.

Literally is an English adverb meaning "in a literal sense or manner" or an intensifier which strengthens the associated statement. It has been used as an intensifier in English for several centuries, though …

usage: Since the early 20th century, literally has been widely used as an intensifier meaning “in effect, virtually”: The senator was literally buried alive in the June primaries.

Definition of literally adverb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

You use literally to emphasize that what you are saying is true, even though it seems exaggerated or surprising.

literally meaning, definition, what is literally: according to the most basic or original ...: Learn more.

Dec 30, 2025 · literally (comparative more literally, superlative most literally) Word for word, exactly as stated. Without overstatement or understatement, or false or misleading words.

Since the early 20th century, literally has been widely used as an intensifier meaning "in effect, virtually,'' a sense that contradicts the earlier meaning "actually, without exaggeration'': The senator was …