literally

1 of 1adverb

/ˈlɪ.tɜ.rə.li/

1

used for putting emphasis on something that seems surprising but is true

He literally works around the clock, often staying at the office until midnight.
When he said he was literally starving, he meant he hadn't eaten all day.
She was so funny, I was literally rolling on the floor laughing.
I was so tired, I could literally fall asleep standing up.

2

in a manner that expresses what is really intended, without exaggeration

B2

Her excitement was so intense that she literally jumped up and down when she received the award.
The comedian's jokes about his job were funny because they were literally true; he worked in a clown costume at a theme park.
The warning sign "Beware of Dog" should be taken literally; there is a large and protective guard dog on the premises.
She was so angry that she was literally shaking.

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