Definition

To make something literal, meaning to express it in a straightforward or exact way without metaphor or exaggeration.

Example

The author decided to literalize the metaphor in her poem to make it clearer for the readers.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how we literalize metaphors in conversation?

I never really considered that, but it makes sense!

Yeah, sometimes it’s funny how we take things so literally.

Totally! It adds a whole new layer to what we say.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Literalize → It is formed from "literal" (from Latin *literalis*, meaning of letters or pertaining to letters) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "literalize" means to make something literal or to express it in a literal form.

Memory Tip

Think of 'literal' which relates to letters and the '-ize' that means to make. This helps you remember that to 'literalize' something is to make it express its true, letter-based meaning.

Visually Confused Words