>So it’s okay to use literally to mean figuratively as long as you really, really, really need to do so? Hmph.
No need for the "hmph". It's how language works. Yes, a word can indeed have not only multiple meanings but also contrasting meanings. And there's nothing wrong with that nor is there a need to be judgmental about it.
No need for the "hmph". It's how language works. Yes, a word can indeed have not only multiple meanings but also contrasting meanings. And there's nothing wrong with that nor is there a need to be judgmental about it.
It's not a particularly new meaning either
http://itre.cis.upenn.edu/~myl/languagelog/archives/002611.h...