LITERALLY AND FIGURATIVELY

Literally is often confused with figuratively.

We use literally when we want to describe something as actual, exact, or 'to the letter'.

Example 1: Sharon literally fell off her chair upon hearing the shocking news.
This means that Sharon actually fell off her chair.

Example 2: Rainwater was literally seeping through the walls of the apartment.
This means that rainwater was physically seeping through the walls.

We use figuratively when we want to express something metaphorically or imaginatively. It is used to mean something that is not really happening.

Example 1: After all, figuratively speaking, you and I are still on the same boat.
This does not mean that the two persons are actually on a boat. The speaker means to express in a metaphorical sense that the two persons are in the same situation.

Example 2: Figuratively speaking, Jennifer got herself into hot water.
This does not mean that Jennifer is actually in hot water. This is a figurative way of saying that Jenny got herself into trouble.