literally

Definition of literallynext
as in accurately
in a literal, true, or accurate way She is not one for hyperbole—all of her warnings should be taken literally. The employees took the CEO's remarks literally and rightfully worried about the future health of the company.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of literally Tenants were left to live in apartments that, in some cases, were literally falling apart. Clio Chang, Curbed, 6 Apr. 2026 Lou Thompson 60 Minutes Here outside Fresno in California's Central Valley, one of the few signs of concrete progress, literally - structures like this. Jon Wertheim, CBS News, 5 Apr. 2026 You may literally be involved with opening up your philosophy of life or beliefs. Kyle Thomas, PEOPLE, 5 Apr. 2026 Fey revealed the lounge has fallen apart after literally being run into the ground by too many Five-Timers Club sketches. Omar L. Gallaga, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for literally
Recent Examples of Synonyms for literally
Adverb
  • There are over 50 types of mosquitoes in Minnesota, but Carlson said scientists can predict the population of cattail mosquitoes more accurately.
    Ashley Grams, CBS News, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Jesse is upset that Michelle won’t talk to Lacy about what their relationship should be like, and Michelle says, quite accurately, that is not her job.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2026
Adverb
  • Wayfinding signage will direct you to the pedestrian bridge over the canal, which leads directly to Miami Freedom Park and Nu Stadium.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2026
  • The likelihood of lightning increases as a thunderstorm gets closer and reaches its highest point when the storm is directly overhead.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Apr. 2026

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“Literally.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/literally. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.

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