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

Derived Forms

• nonfiguratively
  adverb
• unfiguratively
  adverb
• semifiguratively
  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

Explanation

The adverb figuratively describes something symbolic, not actual. If a friend invites you to tonight's concert but you already have plans with your family, you might say — figuratively — that your hands are tied. Something that's said figuratively isn't intended to be taken as the literal truth, but as a symbol of something, or as emphasis. Figures of speech are good examples of things people say figuratively, like "the book begged to be read," or "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" — not meant to be understood literally (you really don't want to eat that horse, do you?). The Latin word figurare, "to form or fashion," is the root of figuratively.

Example Sentences

The Axiom suits are literally and figuratively cool, designed by the Italian fashion house Prada and built by Houston-based Axiom Space.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

But thinking about it and listening to everybody here right now, I just am very grateful to have a seat at the table, literally and figuratively.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

For many years, day trading was reserved for professional traders and wealthy investors — not just figuratively but because of a restriction known as the pattern day-trading rule.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

While William’s future appears more predictable than ever, Harry, a man who grew up in Kensington Palace and remains fifth in line to the British throne, today lives far from Britain, literally and figuratively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

We were, literally and figuratively, in the same boat.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel