figuratively

[US]/ˈfɪ gjʊrətɪvlɪ/
[UK]/'fɪgjərətɪvli/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

adv. metaphorically; symbolically.

Example Sentences

a heavy load); figuratively it applies to what is burdensome or oppressive to the spirit (

a shady grove of catalpas) or figuratively to what is of questionable honesty (

a weighty package); figuratively it describes what is onerous, serious, or important (

The fleet anchored in the bay and bombarded the town) or figuratively with words (

Costume is a carrier of society culture, is that the ideological form concretization, is figuratively and most keen express way.

an inflexible knife blade); figuratively they describe what does not relent or yield:

Let the stock simmer for several hours); figuratively it refers to a state of gentle ferment (

the sun's afterglow on the verge of the horizon); figuratively it indicates a point at which something is likely to begin or to happen (

a chief magistrate. Used figuratively,chief implies maximum importance or value:

opaque rock crystals); figuratively it applies to something that is unintelligible:

Real-world Examples

But, also figuratively when practical effects are impractical.

Source: Popular Science Essays

The silk screen technique has the effect of flattening her face, both figuratively and emotionally.

Source: Secrets of Masterpieces

The stone was ground down over centuries. We also use it figuratively.

Source: Rachel's Classroom on Phrasal Verbs

Figuratively speaking, this is the Lamborghini of timepieces.

Source: English little tyrant

It was literally and figuratively a pain.

Source: Learn phrases and vocabulary with Vanessa.

Compared to now, the days of the Robber Barons were the Wild West – both figuratively and literally.

Source: Biography of Famous Historical Figures

Compared to now, the days of the Robber Barons were the Wild West — both figuratively and literally.

Source: The legendary stories of business tycoons.

You can also use it figuratively: I'd like to head towards a solution to this problem.

Source: Rachel's Classroom on Phrasal Verbs

But figuratively or idiomatically, it means I don't like it, right?

Source: Tips for IELTS Speaking.

Oh yeah! She wrote the book on th subject – literally and figuratively.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

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