Literally vs. Figuratively — What's the Difference?

Literally is used to emphasize that something is true in a strict sense or exactly as it is said. This word is often employed to clarify that an expression or phrase should be understood in its most basic, direct sense without exaggeration, metaphor, or deviation from its actual meaning. On the other hand, figuratively speaks to something that symbolizes another thing or suggests a likeness but is not literally true. It is used to indicate that a statement is a metaphor or an exaggeration and should not be taken at face value. Saying "I figuratively died of embarrassment" means you felt an intense level of embarrassment, not that you actually died.

While "literally" has recently been used for emphasis in informal contexts, even when referring to situations that are not literally true, this usage can be contentious and is considered incorrect by some language purists. Conversely, "figuratively" is always about indicating that words are being used in a symbolic or metaphorical sense, often to paint a vivid picture or to express an idea more creatively or emphatically.

The misuse of "literally" as an intensifier for statements that are clearly not literal has sparked debates among grammarians and language enthusiasts. However, it's worth noting that language evolves, and dictionaries have begun to acknowledge this extended use of "literally." Meanwhile, "figuratively" remains uncontroversial and is widely accepted as the correct term to indicate non-literal, metaphorical expressions.

Understanding the distinction between "literally" and "figuratively" is crucial for clear communication. Using "literally" to describe something that happened exactly as stated can strengthen the impact of a statement by emphasizing its truth. Conversely, "figuratively" allows for expressive, imaginative language that captures emotions or states of being that are not physically tangible but are real in a psychological or emotional sense.