I just found out the definition of 'literally' no longer just means something actual, factual, or exact. Now literally also means "used to acknowledge that something is not literally true but is used for emphasis or to express a strong feeling." What the what?
I understand the meaning of words change over time. I have previously ranted about the contradictory definition of 'peruse' (to read thoroughly and to skim). That is a natural progression of word change I can accept. My main issue is the contradictory definition but that is part of the process of a word changing.
The perpetual misuse of 'literally,' however I cannot not abide. There are better ways to express a hyperbole without conveying ignorance. The fundamental use of the word is to convey something factual and actual. "I literally almost had a panic attack" is a powerful statement and conveys the necessary distress. "My heart was literally beating out of my chest" is not an intelligent way for adults to express themselves. Anyone who uses 'literally' the way it should be is probably thinking "If that had actually happened, I wouldn't have had to hear you butcher the English language."
Salon.com, librarians, and about half the internet agree with me. While lexicographers have technically validated that usage, most of the English speaking world will be deducting IQ points for quite some time. If you want to sound educated, pick another adverb.
Music: Word Crimes by Weird Al
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