literally because

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "literally because" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the reason for something in a straightforward manner, often to clarify that the reason is not figurative but actual. Example: "I was late to the meeting literally because my car broke down on the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Lewis's preacher gets his leg over figuratively and literally because, as a performer, he's mesmerising.

The Guardian - Books

I guess that male profile was supposed to be taken literally, because, of the thirty-four authors included in the book, exactly four were women.

The New Yorker

"Heartland," a new series beginning tonight on TNT, is an unequivocally sexy hospital drama: figuratively, because the stakes are always high, and literally, because, well, there is sex.

The New York Times - Arts

I mean literally, because, for real, no one knows where that dude is right now.

Vice

That he couldn't live with her — literally, because he was dying — made him crazy.

The New York Times - Books

The landscape is being altered, literally, because the newer sports are great equalizers when it comes to terrain.

The New York Times - Sports

I am, quite literally, because I am facing jail time for giving pigs some small comfort in their final moments.

The Guardian - Opinion

And I mean that 'tap dancing' figuratively, not literally, because no disrespect to the world's greatest tap dancer, Savion Glover".

The New Yorker

These words are to be taken literally because she also, as coincidence would have it, eats teenage boys.

The Guardian - Film

The cinematographer, Giles Nuttgens, works in a flowing and liquid style — literally, because that turquoise blue turns up everywhere.

The New Yorker

But in the meantime, they are our customer — I mean, literally — because they're 21, 22, and that's who we sell to.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "literally because" to clarify that a statement should be taken in its most direct and non-figurative sense. This helps prevent misinterpretations and ensures your message is understood as intended.

Common error

Avoid using "literally because" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly emphatic or even sarcastic. Consider using simpler alternatives like "actually because" or "simply because" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "literally because" functions as a causal connector, explicitly linking a statement to its direct and non-figurative cause. Ludwig provides many examples that showcase its usage in various contexts, confirming its role in emphasizing the factual basis of a claim.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "literally because" functions as a causal connector used to emphasize that a reason is direct and factual, as stated by Ludwig AI. It's considered grammatically correct and is very common, particularly in news and media contexts. While it serves to prevent misinterpretations, it should be used judiciously in informal settings to avoid sounding overly emphatic. Ludwig's examples show the phrase is versatile, but choosing alternatives like "actually because" or "expressly because" can sometimes provide a more nuanced tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expressly because

Emphasizes that the reason is clearly and directly stated.

utterly because

Highlights the completeness and absoluteness of the reason.

exactly because

Indicates that the reason is precise and accurate.

genuinely because

Stresses the authenticity and sincerity of the reason.

effectively because

Suggests that the reason is practical and has a tangible effect.

precisely because

Similar to "exactly because", emphasizing accuracy and detail.

totally because

Similar to "utterly because", highlighting completeness.

really because

A more informal way to indicate a genuine reason.

absolutely because

Emphasizes the certainty and undeniable nature of the reason.

simply because

Suggests that the reason is straightforward and uncomplicated.

FAQs

How can I use "literally because" in a sentence?

Use "literally because" to emphasize that something is true in the strictest sense. For instance, "I was late to the meeting "literally because" my car broke down."

What are some alternatives to "literally because"?

Alternatives include "actually because", "expressly because", or "genuinely because", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use "literally because"?

While some may find it redundant, "literally because" can be useful for clarity. It ensures that a statement is understood in its direct, non-figurative sense, particularly when there's a risk of misinterpretation.

How does "literally because" differ from "figuratively because"?

"Literally because" indicates a direct and factual cause, whereas "figuratively because" implies a symbolic or metaphorical reason. For example, "He was drowning in paperwork "figuratively because" of the overwhelming workload."