[bykovich2]

The cost of living in the Bay Area is -- and I say this with no figuration -- frightening. It provokes genuine fear in me.

[rhaps0dy]

Har, "with no figuration" is a good substitute for old "literally". Thanks.

I only frightens me figuratively, but that may be because I don't plan on moving there.

[igravious]

Totally off-topic but considering the primary sense of `literally' is being figuratively eroded all around me, “with no figuration” might be the best option we'll end up with. I wish I could insure it never came to pass.