Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
take-something-literally
phrase
/teɪk ˈsʌmθɪŋ ˈlɪtərəli/
Definition
To interpret something in its most straightforward and non-figurative sense, without considering any implied or metaphorical meanings.
Examples
- When she said she’d give a million dollars, he took it literally.
- Don’t take my advice literally; sometimes I exaggerate.
- He tends to take things literally, so be careful how you phrase your jokes.
Meaning
When someone takes a statement literally, they understand it exactly as it is stated, without inferring any deeper meaning or humor.
Synonyms
- interpret literally
- take at face value
- understand exactly
