This answer from Youdao Dictionary. ----------------- literally /ˈlɪtərəlɪ/ CET4 TEM8 ADV You can use literally to emphasize an exaggeration. Some careful speakers of English think that this use is incorrect. 真地 例： We've got to get the economy under control or it will literally eat us up. 我们必须控制住经济，否则它真地就会把我们困住。 ADV You use literally to emphasize that what you are saying is true, even though it seems exaggerated or surprising. 确实地 例： Putting on an opera is a tremendous enterprise involving literally hundreds of people. 上演一台话剧是一项巨大的事业，它确实要几百个人参与。 ADV If a word or expression is translated literally, its most simple or basic meaning is translated. 字面上地 例： The word "volk" translates literally as "folk." “”这个词照字面意思翻译为“”。