User:Mandarax/litterally

litterally

English

Etymology

This word, coined in 2014 by Mandarax, is derived from "litter" and "literally". This derivation alludes to the manner in which the word "literally" is so often carelessly and inappropriately thrown around, as a litterbug would carelessly throw out litter in inappropriate places.

Pronunciation

• /ˈlɪt.ər.rəl.i/

Adverb

litterally

1. (speech act) not word for word; figuratively; as an idiom or metaphor

   I litterally died of boredom.

Usage notes

"Litterally" is most appropriately used in circumstances in which one would otherwise intentionally use the word "literally" in an ironic manner, to lampoon those who unintentionally misuse the word "literally".

Synonyms

• figuratively, metaphorically, virtually

Antonyms

• literally, actually, really