adv
figuratively
adv
1
In a symbolic or metaphorical way, rather than exactly as the words state.
"She was, figuratively speaking, on top of the world after the win."
How to Use Figuratively
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSpeaking in metaphor rather than literal fact.
Common mistake
Don’t use "literally" when you actually mean "figuratively" — they mean opposite things.
Easily confused with
Word Forms
more figuratively comparative, most figuratively superlative
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Fill the Gap
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She was, _____ speaking, on top of the world after the win.
Etymology
From figurative plus -ly.