You know how it is. Someone says something like, "I saw him literally pick her up with one hand." Wouldn't "actually" be appropriate?
2007-02-04 03:36:15 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
this is true! they do mean actually not literally but I heard the same is true about presently. people think it means now but it means in a little while. people get stuck misusing a word and it takes over from the right way of saying things. not sure why tho.
2007-02-04 03:40:06 · answer #1 · answered by Mike H 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The two words may, in some cases, be used interchangeably, but not always.
literally -- In a literal manner; word for word: translated the Greek passage literally.
In a literal or strict sense: Don't take my remarks literally
actually -- In fact; in reality: That tree is actually a fir, not a pine.
Used to express wonder, surprise, or incredulity: I actually won the lottery!
2007-02-04 11:44:16 · answer #2 · answered by lollipop 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Many people use "literally" when they mean "metaphorically". For example:
"She literally exploded with anger."
"His insult literally stabbed me through the heart."
"She was literally green with envy."
2007-02-04 17:18:54 · answer #3 · answered by tentofield 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
THey just don't want you to think they are exaggerating. They really saw them do it. You could use actually...either one...I guess
2007-02-04 11:45:05 · answer #4 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
People do not understand the difference
2007-02-04 11:53:44 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
to sound sophisticated
2007-02-04 11:39:58 · answer #6 · answered by mocho22 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋