literal meaning

Definitions

The primary, explicit, or non-figurative sense of a word or expression.

The interpretation of language based strictly on the standard dictionary definitions of its components, excluding metaphor or irony.

Examples

When he said he was drowning in work, he did not intend for the literal meaning to be taken seriously.

It is important to distinguish between the metaphorical use of the phrase and its literal meaning.

Synonyms

denotation plain sense exact meaning primary definition verbatim interpretation

Antonyms

figurative meaning metaphorical sense connotation implied meaning symbolic interpretation