Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

nonliteral

Adjective

/nɒnˈlɪtərəl/

Definition

Not taking words in their most basic sense; figurative.

Examples

When he said he was ‘on top of the world,’ he was using a nonliteral expression to convey his happiness.
In poetry, nonliteral language can create deeper emotional connections.
Her explanation was filled with nonliteral terms that required some thought to understand.

Meaning

The term ‘nonliteral’ refers to language or expressions that go beyond the straightforward meaning of the words used, often employing metaphor or exaggeration.