Figuratively
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Part of speech adverb
Quick meaning: Figuratively is an adverb meaning (manner) In a figurative manner.
Meaning
(manner) In a figurative manner.
More Meanings
- (as a sentence adverb) Used to indicate that what follows is to be taken as a figure of speech, not literally.
Example Sentences
Figuratively, the cat was out of the bag.
Time can be consumed figuratively like food.
1897 Easton's Bible Dictionary available on Wikisource Shepherd A word naturally of frequent occurrence in Scripture. […] This word is used figuratively to represent the relation of rulers to their subjects and of God to his people.
Synonyms for figuratively
Depending on context, synonyms include nonliterally, literally.
Antonyms for figuratively
Common opposites include literally.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include metaphorically, figurately, figurally, unfiguratively, literarily, allegorically.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.