Translation guide
The concept of 'literal meaning' refers to the most basic, direct sense of a word or phrase, without metaphor, exaggeration, or interpretation. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with terms like 文字通りの意味 (mojidōri no imi) or 字義 (jigi).
To refer to the literal, dictionary sense of a word or expression, as opposed to its figurative or implied meaning.
This is the most common and natural way to say 'literal meaning' in Japanese. It literally means 'meaning as per the characters/letters'.
この言葉の文字通りの意味は何ですか？
What is the literal meaning of this word?
To emphasize that something is true in the most basic, factual sense, often used to clarify that no exaggeration or metaphor is intended.
While 文字通りの意味 is the standard translation, in some contexts it may sound redundant or overly explanatory. In casual conversation, simply asking 「どういう意味？」 (What does it mean?) is often more natural than explicitly saying 'literal meaning'.
この言葉、どういう意味？
What does this word mean? (natural, without specifying 'literal')
You shouldn't take what he said in its literal meaning.
A more formal or academic term for the literal meaning of a word or character. Often used in linguistic or literary contexts.
この漢字の字義を調べてください。
Please look up the literal meaning of this kanji.
Specifically refers to a literal interpretation, often used when contrasting with figurative or loose interpretations.
法律の文字通りの解釈だけでは不十分な場合がある。
A literal interpretation of the law is sometimes insufficient.
This adverb means 'literally' and is used to stress that a statement is true in the exact sense of the words. It can also be used for emphasis in figurative contexts, similar to English 'literally'.
彼は文字通り一晩中起きていた。
He was literally awake all night.
その知らせを聞いて、文字通り飛び上がった。
When I heard the news, I literally jumped up.
Means 'in the true sense' and can be used to clarify that you mean something literally, not figuratively.
彼は本当の意味で天才だ。
He is a genius in the literal sense.