Translation guide
The English word 'literal' is used to describe something that is exact, word-for-word, or not figurative. This guide helps learners express these nuances naturally in Japanese.
Describing a translation that follows the original words exactly, often at the expense of naturalness.
A direct, word-for-word translation. Commonly used when discussing translation methods.
Clarifying that something is meant in its basic sense, not as a metaphor or exaggeration.
Describing something that is strictly accurate, without deviation or interpretation.
Strict; exact. Used when precision is important, such as in definitions or rules.
In English, 'literally' is often used as an intensifier for emphasis, even when not strictly true. In Japanese, 文字通り should only be used when something is actually true in the literal sense. Overusing it can sound unnatural or confusing.
He literally jumped up. (He actually jumped.)
これは直訳すぎて不自然だ。
This is too literal and sounds unnatural.
A translation that follows each word closely. Slightly more technical than 直訳.
A literal translation may not convey the meaning.
A translation that is exactly as written. Emphasizes adherence to the original text.
You should avoid a literal translation.
Literally; in the literal sense. Used to emphasize that a statement is true exactly as stated.
He was literally awake all night.
Really; truly. Often used in casual speech to mean 'literally' in the sense of 'actually'.
I literally couldn't move a step.
Exactly; just. Conveys that something is precisely as described, often with emphasis.
That is literally a miracle.
In the literal sense, that is not correct.
Accurate; precise. Focuses on correctness rather than strictness.
To be literal, that is not a metaphor.
彼は本当に驚いた。
He was literally surprised. (He was very surprised.)