Literal vs. Figurative – Which is Correct?

The distinction between literal and figurative language is fundamental to understanding communication. Literal refers to words used in their exact, dictionary definition, without embellishment. Figurative, conversely, involves language used metaphorically or symbolically, requiring interpretation beyond the surface meaning to convey a deeper idea or image.

Literal or Figurative – Which is Correct?

Both “literal” and “figurative” are correct and valid words in the English language, each serving a distinct purpose in communication. The choice between them depends entirely on the intended meaning. Use “literal” when you mean something exactly as stated, with no hidden meaning or embellishment. Use “figurative” when you intend to use words in a metaphorical, symbolic, or non-direct sense, often to create imagery or evoke emotion.

A simple “swap test” can help: If you can replace a phrase with “exactly as it sounds,” you likely mean literal. If you can replace it with “like a figure of speech” or “metaphorically,” you mean figurative.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Literal	Adjective	Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory; exact.	The sign said “Stop,” so I literally stopped the car.
Figurative	Adjective	Departing from a literal use of words; metaphorical; symbolic.	Her smile was so bright, it was figuratively sunshine.

How to Use Literal

“Literal” describes language that means exactly what it says, without any embellishment, exaggeration, or hidden meaning. It refers to the primary, dictionary definition of words. When you use language literally, you expect your audience to understand the words in their most direct and factual sense. This usage is common in factual reporting, scientific texts, legal documents, and any situation where precision and clarity are paramount, leaving no room for interpretation.

Example 1: The instructions stated to turn left at the third traffic light, and I followed them literally.

Example 2: Scientists must report their findings in a clear, literal manner to avoid misinterpretation.

Example 3: He took her advice so literally that he painted the entire room bright green, exactly as she had jokingly suggested.

What are the different forms of Literal?

The most common adverbial form is literally, meaning “in a literal manner or sense; exactly.” The noun form, though less common, is literality, referring to the quality or state of being literal.

Etymology of the word Literal

The word “literal” comes from the Late Latin litteralis, meaning “of or belonging to letters or writing,” which is derived from the Latin littera, meaning “letter.” This origin reinforces the idea of sticking to the exact written or spoken word.

How to Use Figurative

“Figurative” describes language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It employs figures of speech such as metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole to create vivid imagery, evoke emotions, or make abstract ideas more concrete. Figurative language is prevalent in poetry, literature, rhetoric, and everyday conversation to add color, emphasis, or persuasive power. Understanding figurative language requires interpreting the underlying comparison or symbolism rather than the surface meaning.

While figurative language encompasses many forms, understanding the nuances between allegorical and metaphorical expressions can further refine your communication.

Example 1: When she said “my heart is broken,” she was speaking figuratively, expressing deep sadness.

Example 2: The politician’s speech was full of figurative language, painting a picture of a brighter future.

Example 3: The artist used a cloud of smoke as a figurative representation of confusion in his painting.

What are the different forms of Figurative?

The most common adverbial form is figuratively, meaning “in a figurative sense or manner.” The noun form is figuration, referring to the act or process of forming or shaping, or an arrangement of figures.

Etymology of the word Figurative

The word “figurative” originates from the Late Latin figurativus, meaning “metaphorical,” derived from the Latin figura, which means “shape, form, figure.” This etymology highlights the concept of shaping or forming words to create a different image or meaning.

Related Concepts

Understanding the distinction between literal and figurative language is key to grasping the broader concept of figures of speech. Figures of speech are rhetorical devices that use words in a non-literal way to achieve a particular effect, such as creating imagery, emphasizing a point, or making writing more engaging. Common figures of speech include:

• Metaphor: A direct comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Time is money”).
• Simile: A comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Brave as a lion”).
• Personification: Giving human qualities or actions to inanimate objects or animals (e.g., “The wind whispered secrets”).
• Hyperbole: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally (e.g., “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse”).
• Idiom: A phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meaning of its separate words (e.g., “It’s raining cats and dogs”).

All these examples fall under the umbrella of figurative language, demonstrating how words can be used creatively to convey meaning beyond their surface interpretation.

Examples from Media and Literature

• In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, when Juliet says, “O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?” she is speaking literally, asking why he is called Romeo.
• However, when Romeo describes Juliet, “But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the East, and Juliet is the sun,” he is speaking figuratively, using a metaphor to convey her radiance.
• News reports typically employ literal language to convey facts without bias, such as “The stock market dropped by 2% today.”
• A sports commentator might use figurative language, saying, “The team’s defense was a brick wall,” to describe its impenetrability.
• In the children’s book Amelia Bedelia, the titular character consistently misunderstands instructions by taking them literally, leading to humorous situations like “drawing the curtains” by sketching them.

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. When I told him I was “starving,” I was speaking __________, not that I was actually dying of hunger.
2. The recipe calls for exactly two cups of flour; measure it __________.
3. Her eyes were sparkling diamonds, a __________ description of their brilliance.
4. He took the boss’s comment, “Don’t burn any bridges,” too __________, thinking he shouldn’t use matches.
5. The poet’s use of imagery made the poem feel alive, full of rich __________ expressions.

Answer Key

1. figuratively
2. literally
3. figurative
4. literally
5. figurative

Literal Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Exact	Precise, accurate, or correct in every detail.
Actual	Existing in fact; real.
Verbatim	In exactly the same words as were used originally.
Strict	Demanding that rules concerning behavior or actions are obeyed exactly and without question.
Unvarnished	(Of a statement or description) plain and straightforward; not embellished or disguised.

Figurative Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Metaphorical	Characteristic of or containing metaphors; symbolic.
Symbolic	Using symbols or symbolism; representing something else.
Allegorical	Representing an abstract or spiritual meaning through concrete or material forms; symbolic.
Poetic	Having an imaginative or sensitively emotional style of expression.
Rhetorical	Expressed in terms intended to persuade or impress; often without requiring an answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is the main difference between literal and figurative language?
The main difference is intent and interpretation. Literal language means exactly what it says, demanding no interpretation beyond the surface. Figurative language uses words or phrases to create a comparison, image, or idea that goes beyond their direct meaning, requiring the audience to infer or understand a deeper, often symbolic, message.

Question 2: Can a sentence contain both literal and figurative elements?
Yes, it’s possible. For instance, “The sun literally rose, painting the sky with streaks of fire.” Here, “the sun literally rose” is a direct, factual statement, while “painting the sky with streaks of fire” is a figurative description using a metaphor to evoke imagery.

Question 3: Why is understanding the distinction important?
Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective communication, preventing misunderstandings, and appreciating the richness of language. It allows you to interpret texts accurately, whether you’re analyzing literature, comprehending instructions, or engaging in everyday conversation. Misinterpreting figurative language literally can lead to confusion or humor, while taking literal statements figuratively can obscure facts.

Conclusion

The words “literal” and “figurative” are not interchangeable; they represent two fundamental modes of linguistic expression. “Literal” insists on precision and directness, reflecting the exact meaning of words. “Figurative” embraces creativity and interpretation, using language to paint vivid pictures, convey complex emotions, or make abstract ideas tangible. Mastering the difference between them is essential for clear communication and a deeper appreciation of language’s versatility.

Pro Tip: Always consider your audience and the context. In professional or technical settings, lean towards literal language to ensure clarity. In creative writing or informal conversations, figurative language can add flair and engagement, but be mindful that your audience can correctly interpret your intended meaning.