Definitions

literally

[lit-er-uh-lee] / ˈlɪt ər ə li /

ADVERB

word for word; exactly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

actually completely directly plainly precisely really simply truly

WEAK

correctly direct faithfully indisputably letter by letter literatim not figuratively rightly rigorously sic straight strictly to the letter undeviatingly undisputably unerringly unmistakably verbatim veritably

Antonyms

STRONGEST

doubtfully

WEAK

figuratively loosely

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the philosophy of physics, particularly in a view known as eternalism, the word “timeless” is used literally.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Work is now funded almost entirely by ticket sales, making it a tourist attraction that tourists are literally paying to build.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

There’s arroz con lentejas, a vegetarian take on “arroz con gandules” that literally translates to rice with lentils.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2026

But, Phil adds, Brazil's fans bring a carnival atmosphere to every city they play in - literally.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

“He literally left the room in a huff.”

From "City Spies" by James Ponti

Vocabulary lists containing literally

Ghost

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Kindred

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Booked

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!