adv
metaphorically
Metaphorically (adv) means In a figurative rather than literal way. Example: “Metaphorically speaking, he was drowning in paperwork.”
adv
1
In a figurative rather than literal way.
"Metaphorically speaking, he was drowning in paperwork."
"She was, metaphorically, the glue holding the team together."
How to use metaphorically
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSpeaking figuratively, not literally.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
metaphorically speaking
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more metaphorically
- Superlative
- most metaphorically
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ speaking, he was drowning in paperwork.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for metaphorically
See all rhymes for metaphorically →Frequently asked questions
What does “metaphorically” mean?
The word “metaphorically” means in a figurative rather than literal way. In plain terms, speaking figuratively, not literally.
How do you use “metaphorically” in a sentence?
Here is “metaphorically” used in a sentence: “Metaphorically speaking, he was drowning in paperwork.”
What is the opposite of “metaphorically”?
The opposite of “metaphorically” — its antonyms — is literally.
What part of speech is “metaphorically”?
“Metaphorically” is an adverb.
