literal

Definitions

Taking words in their most basic sense without metaphor or exaggeration.

Following the exact words of the original text or source.

Being exactly true or accurate; factual.

Examples

He took my comment as a literal instruction rather than a suggestion.

The literal translation of the phrase loses much of its original poetic meaning.

Synonyms

verbatim exact precise word-for-word factual unembellished accurate

Antonyms

figurative metaphorical idiomatic symbolic exaggerated imaginative poetic