literally v. figuratively

The definition of literally that is closest to its etymological roots is ‘in exactly the same words’, or ‘verbatim’.—’translated literally from Sanskrit.’ Literally is most frequently used to mean ‘exactly as described’, or ‘in a strict sense’ (or to clarify statements that might otherwise be construed as idiomatic).—’When my uncle, who grows alfalfa, moved away, I literally bought the farm.’

It has since taken on the broader sense of ‘actually’ or ‘without exaggeration’, and like really, is used as an intensifier, emphasizing factual statements. From there, a small shift in usage allowed literally to stand in for ‘in effect’ or ‘virtually’. Literally is now used as an intensifier for metaphorical statements.—’During his solo, the lead guitarist was literally on fire.’ Authorities differ on the acceptability of this last usage.

Figuratively is the opposite of the primary meaning of literally. It means ‘using figures of speech’, ‘metaphorically’, or ‘symbolically’.

Slate on literally v. figuatively

Literally, A Web Log