Literally Watch

It's been a while since the last "Literally Watch" posting, but a regular visitor writes:

I heard a story on NPR about Nelson Mandela's address to the South African legislature on the anniversary of his release from prison. The newscaster said "...where they literally sang his praises." What I wonder is, what tune was that?

     Er, while I really do appreciate the reader bringing this to my attention, and it did appear to be an error, it turns out it is an example of the correct use of literally! Here's what happened during the event:

(Mandela) received a standing ovation from the politicians who sang “Happy Birthday” in English and in Xhosa. As he took his seat on a sofa the group also sang “For he’s a jolly good fellow” and a freedom song which says “Nelson Mandela – there is no one like you.” After a speech by Nkosi Zwelivelile, and having had his praises sung by a traditional imbongi (praise singer) Mr Mandela listened to a speech by President Zuma who extolled his virtues as a political activist, freedom fighter, prisoner, president and pensioner.

     So, it turns out they truly DID "sing his praises"...even to the extent of having a "praise singer" perform...so the use of the word literally is appropriate!

[Literally Watch is an effort on the part of this blog to point out the rampant and regular incorrect use of the word. Literally is frequently used when the writer or speaker means figuratively.]