literalness

/ˈlɪtərəlnəs/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈlɪtərəlnəs/ (ame, ipa) · /-rəlnə̇s How to pronounce literalness (audio)/ (ame, mw)

literalness — noun

1. the habit of taking words only by their direct wording, without looking for meta

1.名詞C2
釋義

the habit of taking words only by their direct wording, without looking for metaphor, tone, or a wider meaning.

例句

Felix's literalness made him read the joke as a weather report.

literalness in reading a joke

In class, Hui's literalness stopped her from seeing the poem's hidden image.

literalness blocks figurative reading

同義詞
  • literalism

    stronger and more ideological, especially in religion, law, or politics

  • exactness

    broader and often positive, not limited to the meaning of words

反義詞
  • figurative reading

    looks for image, suggestion, or metaphor beyond the surface wording

  • interpretation

    allows a fuller meaning instead of staying only with the words themselves

文法句型

literalness in + reading / translation

the literalness of + interpretation

用法筆記

Often used in discussions of reading, religion, translation, or law. Distinguish from sense 2: this sense is about sticking to the exact wording of language, while sense 2 criticizes a generally rigid cast of mind.

常見錯誤

❌Her literalness means she always tells the truth.
✅Her literalness means she takes words at face value.
💡this sense is about interpretation, not honesty.

2. a stiff, over-direct way of thinking that leaves little room for imagination, pl

2.名詞C2
釋義

a stiff, over-direct way of thinking that leaves little room for imagination, play, or subtle meaning.

例句

The poster failed because the designer's literalness left no room for surprise.

literalness in visual design

Bilal's literalness turned every acting game into rule-checking practice.

literalness spoils playful activity

同義詞
  • rigidity

    broader and can describe rules or behaviour, not only style or imagination

  • unimaginativeness

    focuses more directly on the lack of creative ideas

反義詞
  • imagination

    brings new images, possibilities, and unexpected connections

  • playfulness

    allows humour, flexibility, and a lighter touch

文法句型

literalness in + style / design / humour

someone's literalness + verb

用法筆記

Usually critical. Common when judging humour, art, storytelling, teaching, or design rather than careful factual work. Distinguish from sense 1: here the focus is not on reading words exactly, but on a mind or style that stays too obvious and plain.

常見錯誤

❌We need more literalness in the logo.
✅We need more detail in the logo.
💡literalness means unimaginative directness, not visual clarity.