The term "literally" is often used to indicate that something is true in a strict sense, without exaggeration or metaphor. For example, if someone says, "I literally ran five miles," it means they actually completed that distance. This usage emphasizes the factual nature of the statement. However, "literally" is frequently used figuratively in everyday language to add emphasis or express strong feelings. For instance, someone might say, "I was literally dying of laughter," even though they were not in any real danger. This figurative use can lead to confusion, as it strays from the original meaning of the word.