metaphorically
UK: ˌmet.əˈfɒr.ɪ.kəl.i | US: ˌmet.əˈfɔːr.ɪ.kəl.i
adv. in a way that uses or relates to metaphor; not literally
adv. figuratively; symbolically
The word "metaphorically" derives from the Greek "metaphora" (μεταφορά), meaning "transfer" or "carrying over," combining "meta-" (beyond, across) and "pherein" (to carry). The suffix "-ical" transforms "metaphor" into an adjective, and "-ly" further converts it into an adverb. Historically, metaphors were seen as a way of "carrying" meaning from one concept to another, hence the evolution into its modern figurative sense.
She spoke metaphorically, comparing life to a winding river.
The term "heart of stone" is used metaphorically to describe someone unfeeling.
He didn't mean it literally—it was meant metaphorically.
The poem describes time metaphorically as a thief.
Scientists sometimes explain complex ideas metaphorically to aid understanding.