letterlik

Letterlik is an Afrikaans adverb meaning literally, used to indicate that a statement should be understood in its exact, non-figurative sense or to emphasize precision. In standard use it aligns with the English word “literally.” Beyond its literal sense, letterlik can also function as an informal intensifier in casual speech, sometimes stressing a point beyond its strict meaning.

Etymology and history: The word is formed from letter (as in text or characters) and the suffix -lik, meaning “like” or “characteristic of,” and it is a direct cognate of Dutch letterlijk. The Afrikaans form letterlik developed from these Dutch roots and has been part of the language since its early codifications in the 19th century.

Usage and nuance: In formal writing, letterlik should carry its literal sense. In narratives or dialogue, it can emphasize factual correctness. In everyday speech, it often functions as an intensifier even when the literal sense is not strictly applicable; for example, ek het letterlik vyf minute gewag means “I literally waited five minutes.” English translators generally render it as “literally,” but context determines whether a closer sense such as “really,” “quite,” or “strictly speaking” is more appropriate.

Examples:

- Ek het letterlik vyf minute gewag. (I literally waited five minutes.)

- Die toets was letterlik eenvoudiger as wat ek verwag het. (The test was literally easier than I expected.)

- Ek het letterlik niks gedoen nie. (I literally did nothing.)

See also: letterlijk as a cognate; figurative language; literal translation.