sentido literal
Lemma Details
Translation: literal sense; literal meaning
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'sentido' (meaning 'sense' or 'meaning', from Latin 'sensus') and 'literal' (from Latin 'litteralis', relating to letters or writing). The phrase refers to the exact, non-figurative interpretation of words or text, taking them at face value rather than looking for metaphorical or implied meanings.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
En sentido literal, 'tener mariposas en el estómago' significaría tener insectos dentro del cuerpo.
In a literal sense, 'having butterflies in your stomach' would mean having insects inside your body.
Debemos interpretar este texto en su sentido literal, no como una metáfora.
We should interpret this text in its literal sense, not as a metaphor.
El juez insistió en aplicar la ley en su sentido literal.
The judge insisted on applying the law in its literal sense.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'literal' as 'letter-al' - sticking to the exact letters on the page.
- Remember that 'sentido literal' means taking words at face value, just as you would read a letter from a friend without looking for hidden meanings.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in academic, literary, and linguistic contexts when discussing the interpretation of texts. It's particularly important in Spanish literary analysis, biblical interpretation, and legal contexts where the distinction between literal and figurative meanings can have significant implications.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'sentido literal' refers to the exact, face-value meaning of words, 'sentido figurado' refers to figurative or metaphorical meanings that go beyond the literal interpretation.
Notes: These two phrases are often taught together as opposites in Spanish language education, especially when discussing literary analysis or interpretation of texts.
Mnemonic: Literal = Letters (exactly as written); Figurado = Figures (of speech)
Explanation: 'Sentido literal' refers to the exact meaning of words, while 'sentido común' means 'common sense' - practical judgment and intuition.
Confused word:
Usar sentido común es importante cuando se toman decisiones.
Using common sense is important when making decisions.
Notes: Both phrases begin with 'sentido' but refer to completely different concepts - one about language interpretation and the other about practical thinking.
Mnemonic: Literal = Letters; Común = Common (sense)