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literally

Pronunciation: [ˈlɪtərli]

Word

Learn how to use literally in a sentence: 6 audio examples across 2 meanings.

Context: “emphasis”

(adverb) used to emphasize that something is true and not an exaggeration. When someone says something 'literally,' they mean it exactly as stated. It’s like saying it really happened that way, without any tricks.

Example

I literally ran five miles this morning, and I feel great!

Example

She didn't literally mean she was going to fly; she was just being funny.

Example

Did he literally eat the whole pizza by himself?

Context: “figurative speech”

(adverb) sometimes used for emphasis in a way that is not completely accurate. People use 'literally' when they want to make their statement sound stronger, even if it’s not true in a strict sense.

Example

I was so surprised, I literally jumped out of my seat!

Example

She wasn't literally sick; she just didn't feel like going out.

Example

Did you literally have to wait for hours to get in?

How to pronounce literally

Pronunciation: [ˈlɪtərli]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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