figuratively
UK[ˈfɪɡ.ər.ə.tɪv.li]US[ˈfɪɡ.jɚ.ə.t̬ɪv.li]
adv
in a way that uses words not in their basic literal meaning but in a symbolic or metaphorical way to create a vivid effect.
Morpheme Breakdown
figur
ative
ly
figur
form, shape
ative
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'figuratively' traces its lineage to the latin noun 'figura', which denoted a shape, form, or representation. this root evolved through late latin and old french into the english word 'figure', carrying meanings related to symbolic representation. the addition of the adjectival suffix '-ative' created 'figurative', describing language that paints a picture or represents one thing in terms of another. finally, the old english adverbial suffix '-ly' was appended, forming an adverb that specifically describes the manner of using words in a non-literal, symbolic sense, thus completing the journey from concrete form to abstract metaphorical expression.
Analysis
Structure: figur (form, shape) + ative (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
figur originates from latin 'figura', meaning form, shape, or likeness. ative is a latin-derived suffix forming adjectives meaning 'of or relating to'. ly is an old english-derived suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.
Examples
when she said her heart was broken, she was speaking figuratively, not literally.
the phrase "drowning in paperwork" is meant to be understood figuratively.
he is figuratively and literally the backbone of the organization.