Literalism

Literalism is the practice of interpreting words, phrases, or texts in their exact, primary sense, without considering figurative language, implied meanings, or context. It emphasizes strict adherence to the letter of the text or the rules, often leading to a rigid and inflexible understanding. This approach prioritizes the surface level of meaning and can sometimes result in misinterpretations when applied to texts rich in symbolism, metaphor, or humor. It's frequently associated with fundamentalist religious interpretations and legalistic approaches to rules and regulations.

Literalism meaning with examples

• The preacher's unwavering literalism regarding the biblical creation account meant he rejected scientific theories about the age of the earth, believing it was created in six literal days. This uncompromising stance limited his ability to engage in meaningful dialogue with those holding different viewpoints, hindering his community's openness to differing perspectives.
• In analyzing the poem, the student's literalism led her to miss the intricate symbolism and allegorical meanings. She fixated on the surface narrative, failing to appreciate the emotional depth and nuanced themes conveyed through the use of metaphors, similes, and other literary devices intended to resonate with the reader.
• The contract was interpreted with extreme literalism by the lawyer; they looked at every word without considering the intentions of the parties at the time. This led to an unnecessarily prolonged and acrimonious legal dispute. The focus on the wording led them to lose sight of the original objectives of the agreement.
• Some political commentators criticized the politician’s literalism when they described a controversial policy. They argued it demonstrated a lack of understanding of complex economic realities. They believed the policy's implications were far more nuanced than a straightforward reading might initially suggest.