littéral

Littéral is a French word that translates to "literal" in English. It is used to describe something that is to be understood in its most basic, ordinary, or primary sense, without metaphor, exaggeration, or distortion. When referring to text or speech, littéral means adhering strictly to the words as they are written or spoken, without any interpretation or inferential meaning. For example, a littéral translation of a phrase would convey the exact meaning of the original words, even if it sounds awkward in the target language.

In contrast to figurative language, which uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation, littéral language is direct and unambiguous. The concept of littéral is important in various fields, including linguistics, translation, and law, where precise meaning is crucial. Understanding the distinction between littéral and figurative language is essential for accurate comprehension and effective communication. It helps avoid misunderstandings that can arise from misinterpreting intended meanings. The term can also refer to a word-for-word rendering, emphasizing that no meaning has been added or subtracted from the original.