literal
adj
1 [esp attrib 尤作定語]
(a) corresponding exactly to the original 完全按照原文的
a literal transcript of a speech 講話的全文抄本
a literal (ie word-for-word) translation 直譯(逐字翻譯). Cf 參看 free1 11.
(b) concerned with the basic or usual meaning of a word or phrase 照字面本義的
His story is incredible in the literal sense of the word, ie It is impossible to believe him, so he must be lying. 他說的情況令人難以置信, 是真的難以相信(他說的一定是謊話). Cf 參看 figurative, metaphorical (metaphor).
2 (esp derog 尤作貶義) unimaginative; prosaic 無想像力的; 刻板的; 平淡無奇的
His interpretation of the music was rather too literal. 那音樂他演奏得未免太乏味了.
Don't be so literal-minded you know what I meant! 別那麼死心眼嘛--你知道我是什麼意思! literal, n (also literal error) misprint 印刷錯誤.