letterale

Letterale is the Italian adjective meaning literal or relating to letters. It is used to describe meanings, renderings, or interpretations that follow the exact wording of a text, as opposed to figurative or metaphorical readings. The term is common in linguistics, translation studies, philosophy of language, law, and literary analysis.

Etymology and forms: Letterale derives from Latin litteralis, from littera “letter.” In Italian it forms terms such as significato letterale (literal meaning), interpretazione letterale (literal interpretation), and traduzione letterale (word-for-word translation). The noun form letteralità denotes the quality of being literal, and related phrases contrast with figurato or metaforico usage.

Usage and distinctions: In linguistics, interpretazione letterale refers to understanding a sentence by its primary sense. In translation, traduzione letterale aims to render text word-for-word, preserving wording but often neglecting idioms, tone, or cultural nuance. In law and policy, testo letterale emphasizes strict adherence to the written provisions rather than their spirit.

Examples: Taking a sentence in a strictly letterale sense can yield awkward results, especially with idioms. For instance, a literal rendering of an idiom like “to spill the beans” would be “versare i fagioli,” which sounds odd in Italian; a natural translation would capture the intended meaning rather than the exact words.

See also: Related topics include literal meaning, figurative language, translation studies, and textual criticism.