literal

/ˈlɪt(ə)ɹəl/adj
Middle School
1

Exactly as stated; read or understood without interpretation; according to the letter; not figurative or metaphorical; following the letter or exact words; not taking liberties; etymonic rather than idiomatic.

2

Actual, real, physical.

3

That which generally assumes that the plainest reading of a given text is correct but which allows for metaphor where context indicates it.

4

Following the historical-grammatical method of biblical interpretation.

5

Consisting of, or expressed by, letters (of an alphabet); using literation.

6

Unimaginative; matter-of-fact; literal-minded.

7

Used nonliterally as an intensifier. See literally for usage notes.

8

Misspelling of littoral.

Sound Patterns & Rhymes

Rhymes

Words that share the same ending sound pattern

Alliteration

Words starting with the same consonant sound — used in poetry and prose to create rhythm, emphasis, and memorable phrasing (e.g. “Peter Piper picked”)

Assonance

Words sharing similar vowel sounds regardless of starting letter — creates internal melody in writing

Consonance

Words sharing similar consonant sound patterns — adds texture and cohesion to writing