literal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Their arrival, and a contractual deadline for successfully reversing the formula that might cost Les his company, sets up a ticking clock, represented by literal ticking clocks mounted around the laboratory.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

The Dunlap broadside was a broadside in a figurative sense as well as a literal one, blasting its message like cannons fired from the side of a warship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

It’s weird to be alive at a time when much of contemporary warfare comprises literal laser beams, flying robots and dungeons full of nerds at computer terminals, but that’s really what’s happening.

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

There will also be a rather literal interpretation of comedy series Amandaland that enlists a string of famous Amandas, and a performance from singer-songwriter Calum Scott.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

I was uncertain if this referred to Bud or to a literal blue jay, or if, perhaps, we were heading into the territory of senile dementia.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt