Word Play: When Cats and Dogs Fall from the Sky and Other Language Adventures

Figuratively vs. Literally

History

The word “figuratively” comes from “figure,” meaning something that stands for something else. It has been used for many years to show a way of speaking that is imaginative, not exact. On the other hand, “literally” comes from “letter,” meaning just what the words say. It has been used for a very long time to show things happening in a real way.

How to Use Them

“Figuratively” is used when words mean something different from their usual meaning. It’s like using your imagination to describe things. “Literally” is used when words mean exactly what they say.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “figuratively” as “figure of speech” where you don’t mean it exactly. For “literally,” think of “letter by letter,” where it means exactly what it says.

Example Sentences

Using Figuratively

1. It was raining cats and dogs. (It was raining very hard.)
2. She has a heart of gold. (She is very kind.)
3. I could eat a horse. (I am very hungry.)
4. He kicked the bucket. (He died.)
5. This plan is a piece of cake. (This plan is very easy.)

Using Literally

1. She literally jumped over the fence. (She really jumped over the fence.)
2. The book is literally 300 pages long. (The book has exactly 300 pages.)
3. He literally ran a marathon. (He really ran a marathon race.)
4. The water is literally freezing. (The water is actually at freezing temperature.)
5. I literally have no money left. (I really have no money left.)

Summary

Use “figuratively” when you want to describe something in a creative way, not taking it word for word. Use “literally” when you want to say something that is exactly true, without any special meaning. Remember, “figuratively” is like pretending, and “literally” is like telling the plain truth.