Literal and literary look similar, but they do different jobs.
Literal means exact, factual, or not exaggerated. Use it when you mean something is true in a direct sense. For example, The tank is literally empty means there is no fuel left. In careful writing, avoid using literally just for emphasis if you do not mean it exactly.
Literary relates to writing, books, or the style of literature. Use it when talking about novels, poetry, authors, or a piece of writing with artistic qualities. For example, She won a literary prize refers to an award connected to literature.
- Literal: exact meaning, direct fact, no exaggeration
- Literary: connected to literature, writing, or artistic language
A simple way to remember it is this: if you mean true in the exact sense, choose literal. If you mean connected to books or writing, choose literary.
