Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
literal-sense
Adjective
/ˈlɪt.ər.əl sɛns/
Definition
The most basic or primary meaning of a word or phrase, without any metaphor or exaggeration.
Examples
- In a literal sense, the phrase ‘kick the bucket’ means to physically kick a bucket, but it is often used idiomatically to refer to dying.
- When someone says they’re ‘on fire,’ in the literal sense, it means they are actually experiencing flames.
Meaning
In a literal sense, words or phrases are taken at face value, without interpretation or embellishment. This is the straightforward, dictionary definition of terms, as opposed to figurative or symbolic interpretations.
Synonyms
- Primary meaning
- Exact meaning
- Direct interpretation
