figuratively

American  

[fig-yer-uh-tiv-lee] / ˈfɪg yər ə tɪv li /

adverb

1. in a way that involves or invokes a metaphor or figure of speech; metaphorically.

   Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated to remove darkness from our lives both literally and figuratively.

   We figuratively envision personal space as an aura or a soap bubble.

2. by means of a figure, likeness, or emblem.

   In art and literature, the former kingdom was often figuratively presented as a woman.

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Other Word Forms

• nonfiguratively adverb
• semifiguratively adverb
• unfiguratively adverb

Etymology

Origin of figuratively

figurative ( def. ) + -ly

Compare meaning

How does figuratively compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• metaphorically vs. figuratively

Example Sentences

Time and again, Australia were put on the back foot – figuratively and literally.

From BBC

“Mother Nature reigns supreme, both literally and figuratively.”

From The Wall Street Journal

They were the worst actors, literally and figuratively, far less adept at deception than seasoned companies who’ve mastered hiding problems in footnotes and “non-GAAP adjustments.”

From MarketWatch

Both literally and figuratively, you never know which Chelsea is going to turn up.

From BBC

To solve each mystery, Jessica’s willing to get her hands dirty, literally and figuratively.

From Los Angeles Times