What Does “Literally” Mean?

When it comes to English, there’s probably no topic more controversial than the use of the word literally. While one side fervently claims that there’s only one meaning, the other believes that words can evolve and have multiple definitions.

But who’s right? That’s what we’re here to uncover as we explore what one major linguistic authority has to say about the word literally.

What Does “Literally” Mean?

A quick online search will show you that literally is an adverb that means “in a literal sense,” which is to say, “in a completely accurate way.” Think of it as a synonym for “actually.”

However, if you check the Merriam-Webster dictionary, you’ll notice that it includes multiple definitions, one being “virtually; used in an exaggerated way to emphasize a statement or description that is not literally true or possible.”

Wait, what? How can the word literally have two contradictory meanings? Remember, this is English we’re dealing with. There are plenty of words, known as contronyms, that have opposite definitions. Knowing that, literally can technically be considered a contronym. 

But the second definition must be some new-age use that only recently became popular, right?

Actually, no. According to Merriam-Webster, using literally to add emphasis has been around since the 18th century and can be found in many renowned writers’ works, including Mark Twain, James Joyce, and many others.

So, if you’re looking for a straightforward answer on what literally means, here it is: Literally can mean “actually or in a literal and accurate sense,” but it can also mean “virtually and in an exaggerated way.”

Synonyms for “Literally”

You should know that a few words carry similar connotations when using literally to mean “in a literal sense.”

Actually

Exactly

Factually

Precisely

Really

Some synonyms carry similar meanings to literally when used to mean “virtually and in an exaggerated way.”

Essentially

Figuratively

Effectively

Practically

How To Use the Word “Literally” Correctly

You came here looking for answers on how to use the word literally correctly, so here’s what we recommend:

When writing or speaking in a professional or academic setting, only use literally in its primary meaning, “in an accurate or literal sense.” But in casual conversations, you don’t have to correct the use of literally when you or someone else uses it to mean “in effect or virtually.” Grammar purists may be seething at this recommendation, but bear in mind that the contested use of the word literally has been around since the 18th century.

Yes, the multiple meanings of literally further prove how exasperating the English language can be. Luckily, there’s a way to ensure pristine word usage in your written work: by trusting LanguageTool’s paraphrasing tool. As an advanced, AI-driven writing assistant, this tool checks for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and enhances style by optimizing tone and word choice.

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