literalní

Literalní is a Czech word that translates to "literal" in English. It refers to the exact or basic meaning of a word or phrase, as opposed to its figurative or metaphorical meaning. When something is described as literalní, it means it should be understood in its most straightforward and direct sense.

For example, if someone says "I'm drowning in work," the figurative meaning suggests they have an overwhelming amount of tasks. However, a literalní interpretation would imply they are actually submerged in water, which is unlikely in most professional contexts. The distinction between literalní and figurative language is crucial for accurate comprehension and communication.

In linguistics and literature, understanding the literalní meaning is the first step in analyzing a text. It forms the foundation upon which deeper interpretations, such as symbolism, irony, or satire, can be built. Misinterpreting the literalní sense can lead to significant misunderstandings, especially when dealing with jokes, idioms, or nuanced expressions. The term emphasizes precision and avoids ambiguity in meaning.